Evaluation of the Impact Sound Transmission Through Concrete Floor Using Numerical Simulation and Laboratory Experiment

Abstract

The present paper examines the impact noise transmission through some floor building assemblies using different approaches. Firstly, the Acoubat software has been used to simulate the impact noise transmission through different floor configurations used in Algerian construction mode. The results are compared with the available measurements based on Bruel and Kjaer 2260 sound level meter analyzer equipment. The results of the first method show that the different cases of floor configurations need some improvement to ensure the acoustic comfort in the receiving apartment. The addition of resilient underneath tile reduces the impact noise level from 67 dB to 57 dB. When the polyethylene and mineral wool are used, the results showed that the total level of the impact noise can be achieved \( {\text{L}}_{{{\text{nT}},{\text{w}}}}^{\prime } \) = 56 dB and \( {\text{L}}_{{{\text{nT}},{\text{w}}}}^{\prime } \) = 54 dB, respectively. In conclusion, the recommended value of the impact sound level in the receiving room should not exceed 58 db. Secondly, we have developed two experimental methods, (i) field method in multi-storey residential building, and (ii) laboratory method using the following equipment: sound level meter analyzer Bruel and Kjaer 2270 with accelerometer Bruel and Kjaer 5408, BZ 5503 software, and impact-tapping machine Bruel and Kjaer 3204. The laboratory method is good way to estimate the weighted sound reduction index of resilient materials mixed with mortar or layer placed under tile. The results show that the weighted sound reduction index of resilient layer can reach 18 dB, 6.6 dB and 11.6 dB for the rubber, PVC and Bitumen layer, respectively. The important results obtained in this paper can be used as platform to improve the acoustic rehabilitation of the multi-storey residential building.