ASTM E90-09
A standard test procedure for determining the loss of sound transmission through building partitions, including walls, floors, and ceilings, is ASTM E90-09. In order to maintain acoustic privacy and comfort in buildings, it is critical to assess how well these structures can block sound from moving between spaces.
Use of ASTM E90-09:
Acoustic Performance Assessment: This standard is used by engineers, architects, and acousticians to assess how well building materials and assemblies insulate against sound.
Product Development and Certification: To make sure their products fulfill the necessary sound transmission standards, manufacturers of building materials and soundproofing products rely on ASTM E90-09 for testing and certification.
Regulatory Compliance: Building codes and regulations that outline sound transmission criteria may require adherence to ASTM E90-09.
Method of ASTM E90-09:
Sample Preparation: The test sample, which is usually a wall or floor assembly or partition, is built in accordance with precise specifications. The way it is installed should reflect how it is actually used.
Testing Environment: To minimize outside noise and enable precise measurement of sound transmission, the test is carried out in a controlled laboratory setting.
Method of Measurement:
Sound Generation: On one side of the partition (the source room), a loudspeaker continuously produces a noise signal, typically pink noise.
Data collection: To gauge the sound level, microphones are positioned in the receiving room, which is next door. At the same time, measurements are made in both rooms.
By comparing the sound levels in the source and receiving rooms, the sound transmission loss (TL) is computed.
A thorough evaluation of the material’s performance across a range of frequencies is provided by plotting the sound transmission loss, which is measured in decibels (dB), against frequency.
The findings can be used to categorize the material’s sound insulation performance and determine how well the partition blocks sound.
Building assemblies must adhere to ASTM E90-09 in order to improve acoustic comfort and privacy in a variety of contexts, including residential, commercial, and institutional buildings.