Low-frequency airborne sound transmission through single partitions in buildings

The low-frequency (20-250Hz) airborne sound transmission of single partitions is investigated. Three theoretical models are used for the prediction. an infinite plate model, a baffled plate model and a room-plate-room model. The calculation models are verified by detailed comparisons with experimental results obtained in the laboratory. A parametric study is carried out to examine the influence of the dimensions of the room and the partition. The results demonstrate the strong modal behaviour of the low-frequency sound transmission. As a result, the low-frequency sound insulation depends not only on the properties of the test wall but also on the geometry and the dimensions of the room-wall-room system. In general, the large variation of the low-frequency insulation compromises the accuracy of prediction of the sound insulation in situ. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Ltd.