Title: Acoustic Performance of Concrete Panel Walling

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Publication: CIA

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Date: 2/13/2011

Abstract:
Concrete panels are becoming increasingly popular as a walling solution for a variety of applications from residential units through to commercial and industrial buildings because of their economy and speed of construction. However no systematic testing to establish their acoustic performance has been carried out in Australia since the early seventies. The need to establish the acoustic performance of concrete-based walling systems is essential in order that concrete can continue to provide both an acceptable and affordable walling solution. This paper outlines recent research funded by the Cement and Concrete Association of Australia and conducted by the CSIRO to establish the acoustic performance of various concrete-panel based walling systems. This paper discusses some of the research findings and how they can be used in establishing acoustic design parameters for concrete panel walling systems. Overall, the results confirm that walls built of concrete panels provide good acoustic performance even at low frequencies, and that the performance exceeds the current BCA requirements. It should also be possible to design wall systems that satisfy any more stringent requirements imposed in the future.