Theoretical and experimental vibroacoustic analysis of advanced hybrid structure (CNT/luffa/epoxy)

This study presents the vibroacoustic analysis of a hybrid epoxy composite panel reinforced with advanced multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MW-CNTs) and luffa fibre. The vibroacoustic responses were obtained numerically, and the model validity was verified with experimental values. The responses were analysed under the stimulus of harmonic point excitation, considering ambient conditions, using a coupled finite element–boundary element (FE–BE) model. To ensure the accuracy and stability of the numerical model, the different structural responses, including natural and thermal frequency, of hybrid composite plates, were evaluated and compared with data from published literature. In addition, experimentation was conducted, and the results were compared with the numerically derived model to demonstrate the model’s effectiveness. Furthermore, several numerical examples were solved using the numerical model to illustrate its applicability and enhance understanding. The results obtained from the experimental investigation showed that adding luffa fibre and MW-CNTs to the composite panel improved its sound transmission loss and absorption coefficient. Overall, the results suggest that the hybrid composite panel has excellent vibroacoustic performance and can be used in various engineering applications that require lightweight, high-strength materials with good damping and noise reduction properties.