Abstract
<jats:p>This study investigates the potential of using a Tesla valve as a flow-resistive element to enhance the acoustic absorption performance of foam-based absorbers. Originally designed for passive fluid control, Tesla valves feature asymmetric geometries that can also affect sound wave propagation. Finite Element Method (FEM) simulations were performed in ANSYS Workbench to analyze the sound pressure level (SPL) and frequency response under various configurations, including the addition of a labyrinthine structure. The results revealed frequency-selective absorption behavior, with a notable SPL reduction in the reverse flow direction. Specifically, the inlet-side SPL decreased from 112 dB to 98 dB, confirming the valve's directional acoustic damping capability. Incorporating a labyrinth pathway further improved energy dissipation through multiple internal reflections and vortex-induced losses. Experimental findings supported these results, showing that the Tesla labyrinth inlet model achieved the best performance, while all outlet responses exhibited lower SPL values than their corresponding inlets. These outcomes demonstrate the feasibility of applying Tesla valve geometry as a compact, passive, and one-way acoustic control mechanism. Although the results are based on idealized conditions, they lay the groundwork for future experimental validation and integration into smart acoustic systems, noise suppression technologies, and flow-acoustic applications.</jats:p>