Acoustics

The science of sound- Acoustics- can be broadly divided into two major areas:

1. The handling of wanted sound, i.e. creating the most favorable conditions for listening to a sound we want to hear: room acoustics
2. The handling of unwanted sound, i.e. the control of noise

Sound incident on the surface of a solid body (e.g. wall) is partly reflected, partly absorbed (converted into heat) and partly transmitted to air on the opposite side.

If source I = 1, r + a + t = 1

 

The complex pattern of interreflected sound, usually referred as reverberant component which if managed can result in better acoustics.

From the point of view of the building which is to be designed, it is useful to distinguish:

a)      External noises

b)      Internal noises

Against external noises following means of protection are available:

1. Distance
2. Avoiding zones of directional sound
3. Screening
4. Planning: using non noise-sensitive parts of the building as barriers
5. Positioning of openings away from noise source
6. Noise insulating building envelope

Against noises generated within the buildings following measures can be taken:

1. Reduction at source
2. Enclosing and isolating the source, or use absorbent materials
3. Planning: separating noisy spaces from quiet ones, placing indifferent areas in between
4. Placing noisy equipment in the basement
5. Reduce impact noises by covering surfaces with resilient materials
6. Reduce noises in the space where it is generated by absorbent surfaces
7. Reduce airborne sound transmission by airtight and noise insulating construction
8. Reduce structure borne sound transmission by discontinuity