Modal filtered-x LMS algorithm for global active noise control in a vibro-acoustic cavity

•An algorithm named as 'Modal filtered-x LMS algorithm' proposed for global active noise control.•Filtered-x LMS algorithm is formulated in the modal domain to reduce acoustic potential energy.•Concepts of 'modal secondary paths' and ‘modal filtered reference signals’ are introduced.•A numerical study presented to reduce noise in a car-like vibro-acoustic cavity.•Contributions of specific or chosen modes to the acoustic potential energy can be reduced.•The method offers computational advantage over the conventional method for global ANC.