Investigation of the pore structure and sound-absorbing capability of the Chinese parasol tree (Firmiana simplex (L.) W.Wight) and Chinese tulip poplar (Liriodendron chinense) transverse sections as eco-friendly, porous, sound-absorbing materials

As part of the search for useful wood species as an eco-friendly and sound-absorbing material, the sound-absorbing properties of the Chinese parasol tree (Firmiana simplex (L.) W.Wight) and Chinese tulip poplar (Liriodendron chinese) were investigated. The pore structure of their transverse sections and the porosity (through-pore porosity, blind-pore porosity, and closed-pore porosity) according to their physical pore shapes were investigated. In conclusion, the sound absorption performance of the Chinese parasol tree and Chinese tulip poplar showed a positive linear relationship with their through-pore porosity. In addition, compared with other porous or fibrous sound-absorbing materials, their sound-absorbing capacities were found to be satisfactory. Both of these species are expected to be valuable as eco-friendly sound-absorbing materials.