Field testing of sound absorption coefficients in a classroom

Abstract

Formal procedures for determining the sound absorption coefficients of materials installed in the field do not exist. However, the U.S. Air Force requested such tests to prove that the sound-absorbing material used in classrooms at Beale AFB in Marysville, CA, met the specified NRC of 0.80. They permitted the use of two layers of 0.5-in. fiberboard or 1-in.-thick fiberglass panels to meet the specified NRC rating. Post-construction tests showed reverberation times longer than expected. Unrealistic sound-absorption coefficients for room finish materials had to be used with the Sabine equation to achieve agreement between the measured and predicted reverberation time. By employing the Fitzroy equation and generally published absorption coefficients for ceiling tile, carpet, and fiberboard, the model provided excellent agreement with the measured reverberation times. The NRC of the fiberboard was computed to be 0.35, agreeing with published data. Since this did not meet project specifications, the Fitzroy model was used to learn the type and quantity of material needed to meet design goals. Follow-up tests showed good agreement between the predicted and measured reverberation times with material added, and project specifications were met. Results are also compared with the requirements of ANSI 12.60.