Determining sound transmission through damped partitions: Challenges in theoretical prediction and laboratory testing

Abstract

The sound transmission loss through traditional wall and ceiling building partitions can currently be predicted using software programs and/or laboratory test data. There is, however, a great divide that separates the theoretical prediction of sound transmission loss from the laboratory-measured values. Some of the most common prediction software packages do not account for dynamic (frequency- and temperature-dependent) material properties and are, therefore, incapable of predicting sound transmission accurately for some common solutions. The most accurate and precise software prediction tools available become impractical because the cross-correlation between laboratory testing facilities is so poor that it is not possible to replicate predicted performance dynamics in a laboratory setting. Using the structural properties of damping materials as an example, the divide between theoretical prediction and laboratory testing will be illustrated and possible solutions for closing such a divide will be presented.