Firstly you need to understand that sound absorption is different from sound proofing. Sound absorption, or acoustic absorption, is a process that reduces the sound waves by absorbing them and transferring into heat. The sound wave itself is then absorbed, which reduces the level of sound in the room.
Sound proofing stops the sound from transferring between partitions such as walls, ceilings and floors. Quite simply, sound proofing will prevent any noise from transferring between rooms.
However, sound absorption is adequate for use in most circumstances. From offices to large music venues, sound absorption is a great addition for dramatically reducing noise pollution.
Sound absorption reduces the echo in the room thereby creating a clear sound. This is why it is great for use in music rooms as well as offices and homes. Creating a space where the sound is clear and free from reverb and echo is especially important for places such as sports halls and lecture theatres.
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Types of materials used
Sound absorption materials are usually soft, cushion-like, porous and light. The reason for this is that these materials can actually absorb the sound waves as opposed to harder materials that will rebound and deflect the sound (as with sound proofing).
There are three main types of sound absorption materials:
Porous
This porous material comes in two different forms, fibrous material and open-cell foam.
Fibrous material absorbs sound by allowing it to penetrate the surface. It then bends and dampens the sound waves converting them into heat energy. In turn this converts the acoustic energy into heat energy and only reflecting small parts back into the room.
Open-celled foam absorbs sound by the movement of the air of the sound waves through the gaps in the material. As with the fibrous material, this reduces the sound generating it into heat.
Porous absorbers are highly effective at reducing sound in the mid-range frequencies.
Resonance
Resonance absorbers use a mechanical or acoustical oscillation system which is made up of plates within the air space. Theses are particularly effective at reducing low frequencies.
Panel
Panel absorbers are made from either open foam or fibrous materials. It is important to ensure that you have the right materials in your acoustic panel for them to be effective. Always talk to a specialist to make sure you are getting the right material for the job.
Acoustic panels are the best at dealing with low or bass frequencies. They work by absorbing the sound and reducing the echo and reverberation in the room. The advantage of these panels is that the materials are not particularly nice to look at, so they come covered with an acoustic transparent material such as cloth, wooden slats perforated metal or tissue.
The Top 5 Sound Absorbing Solutions
It is worth noting before we get into this, that these solutions work in different ways and fulfil different needs. It is best to get advice from a professional about your particular issue to ensure you get the correct sound absorbing solution for your specific requirements.
Acoustic Foam
Acoustic foam is often used within the home as the panels usually have attractive fabric designs that enhance the aesthetics of a room. They are best installed in small to middle sized areas such as offices and rooms within the home.
The acoustic foam panels are easily installed, affordable and effective at absorbing sound. This makes them one of the most commonly used materials.
There are a few different types of acoustic foam panels:
The convoluted acoustic foam panel looks like an egg crate. This is ideal for recording studios due to the highly successful sound reduction and aesthetics.
Fabric covered foam panels are often used in theatres and auditoriums because of the wide ranging acoustical performance. They are also easy to install and maintain.
Environments that are high-heat areas will usually benefit from aluminium-facing panels. These panels provide protection from heat and are very sturdy.
Acoustic Fabric Panels
Acoustic fabric panels have a wooden frame and are wrapped with a fabric . They contain a sound absorber such as foam or high-density fibreglass. Dense fibreglass panels are usually used for dealing with low frequencies as they act as a bass trap.
These panels are highly effective and controlling reverberation and echo and create superior sound absorption.
As the fabrics come in a variety of colours and patterns, they are a fabulous choice for adding to the overall design of your room.
Sound Absorbing Underlay
The materials used for sound proof underlay vary from foam, vinyl to rubber. For sound absorption you can choose from a variety such as felt, acoustic foam and plywood.
Acoustic mats can be used on most flooring types from concrete to wood. Usually acting as a layer between the base and the covering such as hardwood, laminate or carpet.
An underlayment helps to soften the sound within a room, reducing noise from footsteps as well as noises from the floor below.
Acoustic Partitions
Acoustic partitions come in different thicknesses and can be lightweight or heavyweight. They are usually made from polyester.
The lightweight partitions are easy to move around and are good to use as a room divider to create a more private and quieter space.
These acoustic partitions are often used in offices that have a lot of people working within one large room. They are also great for creating ambiance in restaurants and privacy in the home.
Sound Absorbing Ceiling Panels
Sound absorbing ceiling panels are a great alternative to installing a fully suspended ceiling. These panels are designed to reduce reverberation and have a foam core covered with a high quality acoustically transparent fabric. They are suitable for use on both walls and ceilings.
DB Absorbers sound absorbing ceiling panels absorb high levels of reflected noise. They are available in a variety of colours and fabric and come in a choice of thicknesses. These light weight yet robust panels are simple to install and highly effective.
In Conclusion
Finding the right sound absorbing solution to create an acoustically pleasing environment will make life feel a little clearer. Cutting down on the noise pollution can help with concentration levels and just give you a clear sounding, pleasant environment to live or work in.
If you would like to discuss your noise issues with an expert, one of our team members at Noise Stop Systems will be happy to talk with you.