Model of a benefit/cost ratio analysis for comparison of environmental noise barriers.

Abstract

The choice for an economically ideal solution of environmental noise barrier must acknowledge both the cost of its main components and the benefits it can provide through time. To achieve a systematic analysis tool an algorithm based on benefit/cost ratio analysis was created. It calculates the benefit/cost ratio for any potential noise barrier. The cost of a barrier can be described with known or quantifiable parameters such as barrier height, thickness, angle, material and initial investment costs, life‐cycle costs as maintenance costs, replacement costs due to minor/major accidents, vandalism or defacement, etc. The benefits associated with a solution are defined by computable parameters such as sound absorption index (DLalfa) and airborne sound insulation index (DLr) defined in EN 1793, insertion loss (predicted or measured), and even intangible parameters such as visual intrusion (color and aesthetics) and environmental impact (sustainability). Each benefit is weighed regarding its importance. Using ...