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Journal of Polymer & Composites Review Article Special issue

Noise and Vibration Reduction Using Sustainable Polymer Nanocomposite Materials: A Review

  1. Aditya Gujar Department of Mechanical Engineering, MIT Academy of Engineering, Pune
  2. Manas Kale Department of Mechanical Engineering, MIT Academy of Engineering, Pune
  3. Vaibhav Gobbur Department of Mechanical Engineering, MIT Academy of Engineering, Pune
  4. Nilesh B. Totla Department of Mechanical Engineering, MIT Academy of Engineering, Pune
  5. Maya M. Charde Department of Mechanical Engineering, MIT Academy of Engineering, Pune
  6. Amol J. Asalekar Department of Mechanical Engineering, MIT Academy of Engineering, Pune

Abstract

Noise pollution and structural vibration represent critical challenges in modern engineering systems, affecting human health, operational efficiency, and equipment durability. This review examines the application of sustainable polymer nanocomposite materials for simultaneous noise and vibration reduction across diverse engineering domains. The fundamental relationship between structural vibration and noise generation is established, followed by a comprehensive analysis of sound absorption and damping mechanisms in nanoparticle-reinforced polymer systems. Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), graphene nanoplatelets, nanosilica, and other nano-additives demonstrate significant enhancement in viscoelastic damping, sound transmission loss, and vibration attenuation when incorporated into polymer matrices. Applications in automotive suspensions, aircraft panels, industrial equipment enclosures, and turbo machinery are critically reviewed. The sustainability advantages of polymer nanocomposites including substantial weight reduction (0.5–1.3% mass penalty versus 20%+ for conventional coatings), enhanced energy efficiency, and recyclability position these materials as environmentally responsible alternatives to traditional metallic and foam-based acoustic solutions. Research gaps including low-frequency performance limitations, manufacturing scalability, and long-term durability are identified. This review provides a comprehensive foundation for researchers and engineers developing next-generation acoustic materials for noise and vibration control applications.

Keywords

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