The Characteristics of Concrete for Controlling Building Noise Reduction

Amy Nursarah Ahmad Zahidi; Norsafiah Norazman

Authors

Amy Nursarah Ahmad Zahidi Building Surveying Programme, School of Housing Building and Planning, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11700 Gelugor, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Norsafiah Norazman Building Surveying Programme, School of Housing Building and Planning, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11700 Gelugor, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8496-723X

Keywords:

Building Acoustic, Concrete, Acoustic Performance, Sound Absorption, Noise Reduction

Abstract

Improving building acoustics is increasingly crucial due to urban growth and the impacts of noise pollution on the health and productivity of human beings. Concrete is a common building material often facing sound absorption and noise transmission challenges. Research shows that noise pollution, particularly in urban settings, can have adverse physical and psychological effects, making the need for enhanced acoustic design in buildings more urgent. Studies indicate that the degree of sound reflection in such modified concretes depends largely on specific aggregate types, pore size and distribution, and other changes in mix composition. This research investigates how properties like density and porosity of concrete influence acoustic performance, focusing on lightweight, high-density, and porous concrete types. Therefore, this research aims to identify the most effective type of concrete for enhancing acoustic performance in buildings. This research will offer practical recommendations for concrete selection based on acoustic needs by examining various concrete formulations and how their properties influence sound behaviour.

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