What is the primary waste product from the palm oil industry being investigated for soundproofing?

The primary waste product under investigation for soundproofing is Empty Fruit Bunches (EFB). This byproduct is generated in vast quantities by the palm oil industry, particularly in regions like Malaysia. The research focuses on utilizing EFB as a sustainable alternative to traditional, often synthetic, soundproofing materials.

How does EFB compare to other materials in terms of sound absorption, as shown in the study?

The study compared the sound absorption capabilities of EFB in two forms: dust and coir. Dust EFB consistently outperformed coir EFB across both low and high-frequency ranges. The study found that the dust EFB, with its finer particle size, achieved higher sound absorption coefficients. The 18mm dust EFB panels achieved a maximum Sound Absorption Coefficient (SAC) of 0.6 at low frequencies (1500Hz) and 0.99 at high frequencies (3750Hz).

What role does the thickness of EFB panels play in their ability to absorb sound?

The thickness of the EFB panels significantly impacts their sound absorption capabilities. The study used panels of varying thicknesses: 6mm, 12mm, and 18mm. The results indicated that thicker panels, particularly the 18mm dust EFB panels, generally absorbed more sound energy. This is because thicker panels provide a greater surface area and more material for sound waves to interact with, leading to enhanced sound absorption.

Why is EFB considered a more sustainable option than traditional soundproofing materials?

EFB is considered a more sustainable option because it's a renewable and cost-effective alternative to synthetic soundproofing materials. Traditional materials can be expensive, non-renewable, and potentially harmful. Utilizing EFB reduces the reliance on these materials and addresses the environmental challenge of palm oil waste disposal. This approach aligns with circular economy principles, converting waste into a valuable resource and promoting a more sustainable future.

How does the density and porosity of EFB influence its sound absorption properties?

The density and porosity of EFB play a crucial role in its sound absorption properties. The superior performance of dust EFB is attributed to its higher density and reduced pore size compared to coir EFB. Smaller fibers, like those in dust EFB, create a denser material with less air space. This denser structure enhances sound absorption because sound waves are more effectively trapped and dissipated within the material's structure, rather than reflecting off of it.

Acoustic panel made of palm oil fibers absorbing sound waves.

From Trash to Treasure: How Palm Oil Waste Could Be the Future of Sustainable Soundproofing

Jordan Keane in Climate & Environment August 2025 • 4 min read.

"Discover how turning empty fruit bunches (EFB) into acoustic panels can help reduce noise pollution and promote a circular economy."

The world is grappling with the dual challenge of managing increasing amounts of waste and finding sustainable alternatives to traditional materials. In Malaysia, the booming palm oil industry generates vast quantities of solid waste, including empty fruit bunches (EFB), mesocarp fruit fibers, and palm kernel shells. These byproducts pose a significant disposal problem but also present an opportunity for innovative reuse.

One promising avenue is utilizing EFB as a sound absorption material. Traditional soundproofing often relies on synthetic materials, which can be expensive, non-renewable, and potentially harmful to human health. Natural fibers, like those found in EFB, offer a more sustainable and eco-friendly option. Researchers are exploring how these fibers can be processed and transformed into effective acoustic panels for buildings and other applications.

This article delves into a recent study that investigates the acoustic performance of EFB in different forms, comparing dust and coir (the fibrous material between the hard internal shell and outer layer of a coconut). The research examines how varying the thickness of EFB panels affects their sound absorption capabilities, paving the way for a greener approach to noise control.

Can Palm Oil Waste Really Absorb Sound?

Acoustic panel made of palm oil fibers absorbing sound waves.

The study, conducted by researchers in Malaysia, focused on evaluating EFB's sound absorption capabilities when processed into two forms: dust and coir. These materials were then fashioned into panels of varying thicknesses (6mm, 12mm, and 18mm) to determine how each configuration performed at different sound frequencies.

To assess sound absorption, the panels were tested using impedance tubes, a standard method for measuring a material's ability to absorb sound waves. The tests were conducted across a range of low and high frequencies to simulate real-world noise conditions. Key findings from the research include:

Dust EFB Outperforms Coir: Dust EFB samples consistently absorbed more sound energy than coir EFB samples across both low and high-frequency ranges. This suggests that the finer particle size of dust EFB contributes to better acoustic performance.
Thickness Matters: Thicker panels generally absorbed more sound. The 18mm dust EFB panels achieved the highest sound absorption coefficient (SAC) at both low and high frequencies. At low frequencies (1500Hz), the maximum SAC was 0.6, while at high frequencies (3750Hz), it reached an impressive 0.99.
Density and Porosity Play a Role: The superior performance of dust EFB is likely due to its higher density and reduced pore size compared to coir. Smaller fibers create a denser material with less air space, which enhances sound absorption.

These results indicate that EFB, particularly in dust form, holds significant potential as a sound absorption material. By optimizing the thickness and form of EFB panels, it may be possible to create effective and sustainable acoustic solutions for various applications.

A Greener, Quieter Future?

The study's findings support the idea that palm oil waste can be transformed from an environmental liability into a valuable resource. EFB offers a renewable, cost-effective, and non-abrasive alternative to traditional soundproofing materials. By reducing reliance on synthetic materials and promoting the use of agricultural waste, this approach aligns with circular economy principles and contributes to a more sustainable future. Further research into optimizing EFB-based acoustic panels could unlock new opportunities for noise control in buildings, transportation, and industrial settings, creating quieter and healthier environments for all.