A Multifunctional Solution for Simultaneous Sound Insulation and Acoustic Conditioning—An Example of Application in a Radio Studio

Abstract

In building acoustics, two different problems usually arise. There is a need to comply with established sound insulation parameters, but there are also legislative conditions concerning reverberation time. It is therefore necessary to acoustically insulate and condition the enclosures. When designing the acoustic treatment of buildings, sound insulation is always considered before acoustic conditioning. There are multiple solutions for sound insulation; one of them consists of a base wall reinforced with a plasterboard lining. The sound insulation improvement provided by these solutions will depend on the type of base wall used. A common solution for acoustic conditioning is the use of perforated plate lining systems with a plenum filled with sound absorbing material. This work presents a solution for simultaneous sound insulation and conditioning improvement, reducing the installation costs. Materials that provide the acoustic conditioning features were analyzed to validate their use in the complete solution, performing airflow resistance tests. The complete solution was also evaluated on a laboratory scale by conducting tests in a reverberation chamber and in a transmission chamber for small samples. Finally, the effectiveness of the presented solution was assessed with in-situ tests in a radio studio.

Keywords

• sound insulation
• acoustic conditioning
• multilayer solutions
• perforated plasterboard lining