Exterior structure on infrastructure used to prevent loud sounds from escaping

A noise barrier (also called a soundwall, noise wall, sound berm, sound barrier, or acoustical barrier) is an exterior structure designed to protect inhabitants of sensitive land use areas from noise pollution. Noise barriers are the most effective method of mitigating roadway, railway, and industrial noise sources – other than cessation of the source activity or use of source controls.

For more information, please visit JINBIAO.

In the case of surface transportation noise, other methods of reducing the source noise intensity include encouraging the use of hybrid and electric vehicles, improving automobile aerodynamics and tire design, and choosing low-noise paving material. Extensive use of noise barriers began in the United States after noise regulations were introduced in the early s.

History

[edit]

Noise barriers have been built in the United States since the mid-twentieth century, when vehicular traffic burgeoned. I-680 in Milpitas, California was the first noise barrier.[1] In the late s, analytic acoustical technology emerged to mathematically evaluate the efficacy of a noise barrier design adjacent to a specific roadway. By the s, noise barriers that included use of transparent materials were being designed in Denmark and other western European countries.[2]

The best of these early computer models considered the effects of roadway geometry, topography, vehicle volumes, vehicle speeds, truck mix, road surface type, and micro-meteorology. Several U.S. research groups developed variations of the computer modeling techniques: Caltrans Headquarters in Sacramento, California; the ESL Inc. group in Sunnyvale, California; the Bolt, Beranek and Newman[3] group in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and a research team at the University of Florida. Possibly the earliest published work that scientifically designed a specific noise barrier was the study for the Foothill Expressway in Los Altos, California.[4]

Numerous case studies across the U.S. soon addressed dozens of different existing and planned highways. Most were commissioned by state highway departments and conducted by one of the four research groups mentioned above. The U.S. National Environmental Policy Act, enacted in , effectively mandated the quantitative analysis of noise pollution from every Federal-Aid Highway Act Project in the country, propelling noise barrier model development and application. With passage of the Noise Control Act of ,[5] demand for noise barrier design soared from a host of noise regulation spinoff.

By the late s, more than a dozen research groups in the U.S. were applying similar computer modeling technology and addressing at least 200 different locations for noise barriers each year. As of , this technology is considered a standard in the evaluation of noise pollution from highways. The nature and accuracy of the computer models used is nearly identical to the original s versions of the technology.

Small and purposeful gaps exist in most noise barriers to allow firefighters to access nearby fire hydrants and pull through fire hoses, which are usually denoted by a sign indicating the nearest cross street, and a pictogram of a fire hydrant, though some hydrant gaps channel the hoses through small culvert channels beneath the wall.

Design

[edit]

The acoustical science of noise barrier design is based upon treating an airway or railway as a line source.[dubious – discuss] The theory is based upon blockage of sound ray travel toward a particular receptor; however, diffraction of sound must be addressed. Sound waves bend (downward) when they pass an edge, such as the apex of a noise barrier. Barriers that block line of sight of a highway or other source will therefore block more sound.[6] Further complicating matters is the phenomenon of refraction, the bending of sound rays in the presence of an inhomogeneous atmosphere. Wind shear and thermocline produce such inhomogeneities. The sound sources modeled must include engine noise, tire noise, and aerodynamic noise, all of which vary by vehicle type and speed.

The noise barrier may be constructed on private land, on a public right-of-way, or on other public land. Because sound levels are measured using a logarithmic scale, a reduction of nine decibels is equivalent to elimination of approximately 86 percent of the unwanted sound power.

Materials

[edit]

Several different materials may be used for sound barriers, including masonry, earthwork (such as earth berm), steel, concrete, wood, plastics, insulating wool, or composites.[7] Walls that are made of absorptive material mitigate sound differently than hard surfaces.[8] It is also possible to make noise barriers with active materials such as solar photovoltaic panels to generate electricity while also reducing traffic noise.[9][10][11]

A wall with porous surface material and sound-dampening content material can be absorptive where little or no noise is reflected back towards the source or elsewhere. Hard surfaces such as masonry or concrete are considered to be reflective where most of the noise is reflected back towards the noise source and beyond.[12]

Noise barriers can be effective tools for noise pollution abatement, but certain locations and topographies are not suitable for use of noise barriers. Cost and aesthetics also play a role in the choice of noise barriers. In some cases, a roadway is surrounded by a noise abatement structure or dug into a tunnel using the cut-and-cover method.

Disadvantages

[edit]

Potential disadvantages of noise barriers include:

• Blocked vision for motorists and rail passengers. Glass elements in noise screens can reduce visual obstruction, but require regular cleaning
• Aesthetic impact on land- and townscape
• An expanded target for graffiti, unsanctioned guerilla advertising, and vandalism
• Creation of spaces hidden from view and social control (e.g. at railway stations)
• Possibility of bird–window collisions for large and clear barriers

• Noise abatement walls often block rail passengers' or road users' view and attract graffiti.
• This noise abatement wall in the Netherlands has a transparent section at the driver's eye-level to reduce the visual impact for road users.
• Low walls close to the track avoid optical impact.

Effects on air pollution

[edit]

Roadside noise barriers have been shown to reduce the near-road air pollution concentration levels. Within 15–50 m from the roadside, air pollution concentration levels at the lee side of the noise barriers may be reduced by up to 50% compared to open road values.[13]

Noise barriers force the pollution plumes coming from the road to move up and over the barrier creating the effect of an elevated source and enhancing vertical dispersion of the plume. The deceleration and the deflection of the initial flow by the noise barrier force the plume to disperse horizontally. A highly turbulent shear zone characterized by slow velocities and a re-circulation cavity is created in the lee of the barrier which further enhances the dispersion; this mixes ambient air with the pollutants downwind behind the barrier.[14]

See also

[edit]

• Health effects from noise
• Noise control
• Safety barrier
• Soundproofing

References

[edit]

The Advantages and Disadvantages of an Acoustic Insulation Floor

If you live in a noisy environment, or if you want to reduce the sound transmission between floors in your home or building, you might be interested in acoustic insulation floor.

An acoustic insulation floor is a type of floor that has sound-absorbing and sound-blocking properties, which can improve the acoustic comfort and privacy of your space.

In this article, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of an acoustic insulation floor, and how to choose the best one for your needs.

What is an acoustic insulation floor?

An acoustic insulation floor is a floor that has a layer of acoustic material under the surface, such as stone wool, foam, rubber, or vinyl. This layer acts as a barrier that reduces the impact and airborne sound transmission between floors.

Impact sound is the sound caused by physical contact with the floor, such as footsteps, furniture moving, or dropping objects. Airborne sound is the sound that travels through the air, such as voices, music, or traffic noise.

Buy Acoustic Underlay

There are different types of acoustic insulation floors, depending on the structure and installation method. Some common types are:

• Floating floor: This is a type of floor that is not attached to the subfloor, but rests on top of a resilient layer of acoustic material. The resilient layer can be dry laid or poured over the subfloor, creating an air gap that reduces the vibration transmission. The floating floor can be made of wood, laminate, vinyl, or carpet.
• Acoustic underlay: This is a type of floor that has a thin layer of acoustic material under the surface, which can be attached to the subfloor or not. The acoustic underlay can be made of foam, rubber, felt, or cork. The surface can be any type of flooring material, such as wood, laminate, vinyl, or carpet.
• Acoustic overlay: This is a type of floor that has a thick layer of acoustic material over the subfloor, which can be attached to the subfloor or not. The acoustic overlay can be made of wood fibreboard, chipboard, or plywood. The surface can be any type of flooring material, such as wood, laminate, vinyl, or carpet.

What are the advantages of an acoustic insulation floor?

An acoustic insulation floor can offer many benefits for your home or building, such as:

• Improved acoustic comfort: An acoustic insulation floor can reduce the noise levels in your space by absorbing and blocking unwanted sounds from outside or from other floors. This can create a more peaceful and relaxing environment for you and your family or colleagues.
• Increased privacy: An acoustic insulation floor can prevent your conversations and activities from being heard by others on different floors. This can protect your personal and professional privacy and confidentiality.
• Enhanced thermal performance: An acoustic insulation floor can also act as a thermal insulator, keeping your space warmer in winter and cooler in summer. This can reduce your energy consumption and bills, as well as your carbon footprint.
• Added value: An acoustic insulation floor can increase the value and attractiveness of your property, especially if you live in a multi-occupancy building or a noisy area. This can make your property more appealing to potential buyers or tenants.

Buy Acoustic Underlay

What are the disadvantages of an acoustic insulation floor?

An acoustic insulation floor can also have some drawbacks that you should consider before installing one, such as:

For more Noise Barrier Panelinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.

• Higher cost: An acoustic insulation floor can be more expensive than a regular floor, depending on the type and quality of the material and installation. You might need to hire a professional installer to ensure proper fitting and performance. You might also need to obtain planning permission or approval from your landlord or building manager before installing an acoustic insulation floor.
• Reduced ceiling height: An acoustic insulation floor can reduce the ceiling height of your space by adding extra thickness to the floor. This might affect the aesthetics and functionality of your space, especially if you have low ceilings or fixtures that need clearance.
• Potential moisture problems: An acoustic insulation floor can trap moisture between the layers of material, which can cause mould growth, rotting, or warping. This can affect the health and durability of your floor and subfloor. You might need to install a vapour barrier or ventilation system to prevent moisture problems.

How to choose an acoustic insulation floor?

If you decide to install an acoustic insulation floor in your home or building, you should consider some factors to choose the best one for your needs, such as:

• The level of noise reduction: Different types and qualities of acoustic insulation floors have different levels of noise reduction performance. You should check the sound transmission class (STC) and impact insulation class (IIC) ratings of the product, which measure how well it blocks airborne and impact sound respectively. The higher the ratings, the better the noise reduction performance.
• The type of subfloor: Different types of subfloor have different characteristics and requirements for installing an acoustic insulation floor. For example, concrete subfloors are more rigid and dense than timber subfloors, which means they need a more resilient and flexible acoustic material to reduce sound transmission. You should consult the manufacturer or installer of the product to ensure compatibility and suitability with your subfloor.
• The type of surface: Different types of surfaces have different acoustic properties and preferences. For example, hard surfaces such as wood, laminate, or vinyl are more prone to impact sound than soft surfaces such as carpet or cork. You should choose a surface that matches your style and comfort, as well as your acoustic needs.
• The building regulations: Different countries and regions have different building regulations and standards for acoustic insulation floors. You should check the local building codes and guidelines to ensure compliance and safety with your acoustic insulation floor. You should also check the fire resistance and thermal conductivity ratings of the product, which measure how well it resists fire and heat transfer respectively.

Acoustic Underlay Products with us

Enhance your home's comfort and tranquillity with our White Wool Felt Carpet Underlay. Crafted from 100% natural virgin animal wool, this sustainably sourced underlay offers exceptional thermal and acoustic insulation, ensuring a quieter and cosier space.

It provides superior underfoot comfort, safeguards your carpets from wear and tear, and naturally retards flames for added safety. 

Experience the best in floor insulation and soundproofing with our eco-friendly, hypoallergenic solution. Ideal for bedrooms and living rooms, this high-quality underlay is the perfect choice for a peaceful and comfortable home environment.

WarmUp Insulated Underlay - Underfloor Insulation - 1.2M Wide 

WarmUp Insulated Underlay - Enhance your underfloor heating system's performance with our 6mm deep insulated underlay. Crafted from grooved polystyrene with silver foil and adhesive overlap, it efficiently reflects heat upwards for optimal thermal and acoustic insulation.

Keep your space warm, save on energy bills, and enjoy soundproofed floors. Ideal for all floor types, this underlay prevents moisture ingress, ensuring a cosy and efficient home. Available in various coverage rolls, it's a must for underfloor heating systems.

Recowool - Felt Carpet Underlay - 11M x 1.37M

Recowool Felt Carpet Underlay by Anglo Recycling – Your Key to Enhanced Comfort and Sustainability!

Enhance your home with this eco-friendly, high-quality felt underlay. Made from 80% unused wool offcuts, it boasts impressive thermal insulation with a TOG rating of 2.5-3.4, keeping your floors warm and cosy. Plus, its remarkable 29-31dB sound impact reduction ensures a quieter environment. 

Not only does Recowool extend the life of your carpets, but it's also a sustainable choice, preventing materials from ending up in landfills. Easy to install and breathable, it's perfect for homes, as well as hospitality and leisure settings. Choose Recowool for lasting comfort and a greener future. Please note, this is a made-to-order product.

Buy Acoustic Underlay

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the advantages of acoustic insulation flooring?

A: Acoustic insulation flooring offers numerous benefits, such as reducing noise levels, improving sound quality, and enhancing overall comfort in a space. It helps to block sound transmission, absorb sound waves, and minimize the impact sound, ensuring a quieter environment.

Q: How does acoustic insulation flooring work?

A: Acoustic insulation flooring works by using materials with soundproofing properties, such as mineral wool or acoustic foam. These materials are designed to absorb sound energy and prevent it from traveling through the floor. This helps in reducing the transfer of airborne and impact sound, significantly reducing noise levels.

Q: Can acoustic insulation flooring be used in both residential and commercial spaces?

A: Yes, acoustic insulation flooring can be used in both residential and commercial spaces. It is particularly useful in areas where noise reduction is desired, such as homes, offices, recording studios, theaters, or any space where sound control is important.

Q: What are the different types of acoustic insulation flooring materials?

A: There are several types of materials used in acoustic insulation flooring, including mineral wool, rockwool insulation, acoustic panels, and foam. These materials are specifically designed to absorb sound waves and minimize sound transmission, providing an effective soundproofing solution.

Q: How effective is acoustic insulation flooring in reducing noise?

A: Acoustic insulation flooring is highly effective in reducing noise levels. By blocking sound transmission and absorbing sound waves, it greatly reduces the amount of sound that passes through the floor. This results in a quieter and more peaceful environment.

Q: Can acoustic insulation flooring be used for both floor and ceiling?

A: Acoustic insulation flooring is primarily designed for floors, but it can also be used for ceilings. The same principles of soundproofing apply to both applications – blocking sound transmission and absorbing sound waves – ensuring improved acoustic performance in both spaces.

Q: Is acoustic insulation flooring also a good thermal insulator?

A: While acoustic insulation flooring does provide some thermal insulation properties, its main purpose is to absorb sound. For optimal thermal insulation, it is recommended to use dedicated thermal insulation materials in addition to acoustic insulation flooring.

Q: Can I install acoustic insulation flooring myself or do I need professional assistance?

A: The installation of acoustic insulation flooring can be a complex process, especially when it involves additional construction work or modifications. It is generally recommended to seek professional assistance to ensure proper installation and optimal soundproofing performance.

Q: How long does acoustic insulation flooring last?

A: The lifespan of acoustic insulation flooring depends on various factors, such as the quality of materials used, maintenance, and the level of foot traffic. However, with proper installation and care, it can last for many years, providing long-term noise reduction benefits.

Q: Can acoustic insulation flooring be combined with other soundproofing solutions?

A: Yes, acoustic insulation flooring can be combined with other soundproofing solutions to enhance its effectiveness. For example, using acoustic panels on walls or applying soundproofing materials to doors can further improve sound control and create a more acoustically optimized space.

Buy Acoustic Underlay

Conclusion

An acoustic insulation floor can be a great solution for improving the sound quality and comfort of your space. However, it also has some disadvantages that you should weigh against the benefits.

You should also consider some factors to choose the best type and quality of acoustic insulation floor for your needs.

If you need more information or advice on acoustic insulation floors, you can visit our website Buy Insulation Online or contact us today. We are happy to help you with your acoustic insulation needs.

Samuel Hitch

Managing Director
Buy Insulation Online.

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Noise Barrier.

Join Group Join our Facebook community. Ask questions and get free advice from our experts.