Microstructure morphological optimization of foam-based lightweight insulators

M T Hoang (1) , Camille Perrot (2) , V. Marcel (1) , J.-F Rondeau (1)

1 Faurecia Acoustics and Soft Trim Division
2 MSME - Laboratoire de Modélisation et Simulation Multi Echelle

This paper presents a new optimization method of the acoustic behavior of poroelastic polyurethane (PUR) foams. Using the Finite Transfer Matrix Method, a set of optimal Biot parameters is determined for optimized possible insulation or absorption properties of specialized foams: airflow resistivity, tortuosity, Young's modulus, etc. Following a chemically controllable microstructure morphology change such as cell size or membrane closure rate, a space of admissible microstructures is found. The 3D hybrid numerical approach developed by Hoang and Perrot, based on three necessary input parameters, is used to link the foam local geometry to its acoustical macro-behavior. Hence, an optimized cell morphology space is identified reaching macro-acoustic targets for absorption purposes such as the first layer of a LightWeight Concept system or for insulation purposes such as the foam spring of any multi-layer insulator. This optimization procedure allows to go beyond classical schemes and gives a high potential for weight reduction or acoustic performance improvement for foam-based insulators.

Mots clés: Optimization; microstructure; absorption; insulation; PUR foams

Domaines: Acoustique [physics.class-ph]

M T Hoang, Camille Perrot, V. Marcel, J.-F Rondeau. Microstructure morphological optimization of foam-based lightweight insulators. 9th edition of the Automotive NVH Comfort Conference, Oct 2016, Le Mans, France. ⟨hal-01663964⟩