ASTM E90

Definition

ASTM E90 is a standard test method used to measure the sound transmission loss of building materials and assemblies, providing essential data on how well a material can block sound. This testing is crucial for evaluating the effectiveness of acoustical treatments in spaces and helps in understanding how sound travels through various structures, making it relevant for designing noise control strategies in various environments.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. ASTM E90 is widely recognized and accepted as a reliable method for evaluating the sound transmission properties of walls, ceilings, floors, and doors.
2. The results from ASTM E90 are critical for architects and engineers when designing spaces that require specific sound isolation standards, such as recording studios or hospitals.
3. This standard includes procedures for conducting tests in controlled environments, ensuring consistency and repeatability in measurements.
4. Understanding ASTM E90 results helps inform decisions about selecting materials and construction techniques that enhance acoustic performance.
5. ASTM E90 plays a significant role in the compliance with building codes and regulations related to noise control in residential and commercial constructions.

Review Questions

• How does ASTM E90 contribute to effective acoustical treatment in rooms and enclosures?
  • ASTM E90 provides a standardized way to measure the sound transmission loss of materials used in acoustical treatments. By determining how well different materials can block sound, designers can make informed choices about which products to use for optimal acoustic performance. This leads to better-designed spaces where noise levels are controlled effectively, enhancing the overall functionality and comfort of the environment.
• In what ways does the data obtained from ASTM E90 influence the design of structures that aim to minimize airborne and structure-borne noise transmission?
  • The data from ASTM E90 helps identify which building materials are most effective at reducing airborne and structure-borne noise. By analyzing sound transmission loss results, engineers can select materials that will meet specific sound isolation requirements. This information allows for more precise design strategies that take into account the unique acoustical needs of different spaces, ensuring that noise control measures are both effective and compliant with relevant standards.
• Evaluate the implications of ASTM E90 results on sound insulation and transmission loss standards within buildings.
  • The implications of ASTM E90 results are significant for establishing sound insulation and transmission loss standards in buildings. When architects and builders understand how different materials perform according to this standard, they can better comply with regulations that require specific sound isolation levels. This not only enhances the acoustic comfort within buildings but also impacts overall occupant satisfaction and productivity, especially in environments like schools and offices where noise can be a major distraction.

Related terms

Sound Transmission Class (STC): A numerical rating that measures how well a building partition attenuates airborne sound, typically reported in decibels.

Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC): A measure of how much sound is absorbed by a material, reflecting its effectiveness in reducing noise within a space.

Decibel (dB): A logarithmic unit used to measure the intensity of sound, often used to quantify sound levels in various contexts.