Evaluación técnica y económica del uso de papel y cartón reciclable de hogares del Distrito Metropolitano de Quito como método de insonorización de ruido ambiental a través de pruebas experimentales

Abstract

Most of the urban waste generated in homes, businesses, offices and services are recyclable, through a correct recovery process, which would allow the use of the material. This is the case of paper and cardboard, which recovery is considered viable, extending its useful life. On the other hand, noise as unwanted sound causes discomfort to society. This is an environmental pollutant unnoticed because it does not have cumulative effects and does not leave residues. Indeed, the manufacture of soundproofing panels made of recyclable material (paper and cardboard) was proposed, in order to reduce the volume of recyclable waste in landfills, and mitigate noise pollution. The panels were handcrafted based on a geometric design. Four different types of panels were built, the first three made of newspaper and glue, corresponding to a smooth panel, two with geometric shapes approximate to industrial panels, and a fourth panel made from egg trays. The panels were evaluated as a soundproofing for a fixed source, in order to verify their soundproofing percentage. The soundproofing tests allowed evaluating the use of this material, to provide a solution to the fixed sources of noise emission, which do not accomplish with the maximum permissible limits in the law, or which produce acoustic discomfort. The identified results: the smooth panel had a higher density due to the amount of material used; due to obtain a higher percentage of soundproofing compared to the other three panels. Within the economic analysis, the cost of the panel could come to compete in the market, however, it will be considered that it is not an end product due to its fuel characteristic. The panel can be used in small spaces that require soundproofing, such as recording studios, contributing to the circular economy.