A strategy for extending the effective application of micro-perforated panel absorbers to high sound intensity

Micro-perforated panel (MPP) absorbers are simple to construct, can be used in a variety of applications, show good absorption properties and allow relatively accurate prediction and design under linear conditions. However, when the sound intensity is high, the sound pressure level (SPL) under which the MPP is effective is limited due to the nonlinear effect. To solve this problem, we investigated the suppression of the nonlinear effect through design parameters. In this case, the linear response of an MPP with increasing SPL is enhanced; thus, the advantages of MPPs under linear conditions can be attained. First, the concept of a transition SPL is proposed to quantify the effect of the suppression. Then, the rules controlling the influence of the parameters on the transition SPL are investigated via a parameter study. Finally, the validity of the findings is confirmed using experimental data published in the literature. The obtained results can provide guidance for the design of MPP absorbers for high SPL applications.