Acoustic properties of carbon fiber in percussive instruments

With advancements in manufacturability and increasing accessibility of materials, composite materials are competing with traditional materials in the design and manufacturing of musical instruments. Specifically, in snare drum applications, carbon fiber encased in an epoxy matrix has been chosen for its physical properties of strength, durability, and weight as well as its psychoacoustic properties compared to wood. Through comparative data acquisition analysis, the acoustic properties of composite snare drum shells are examined against traditional wooden snare shells. By subjecting the shells to controlled audio frequencies, the sound energy response on the air medium outside of the shell was measured and compared to wooden shells. Experimental data were examined was compared to theoretical values found for carbon fiber.