Blog
Sound Transmission for Plexiglass Sheets
4/17/2019
ePlastics
by Anthony ZAZO10/14/2021 3:22 pmPlexiglass Noise Reduction Sound Barrier
Plexiglas® sheet offers sound loss characteristics that are equal to or better than those of glass. Since Plexiglas® sheet is also more resistant to breakage, it can be used as a transparent sound barrier to reduce noise levels and increase safety at the same time. Tables 1, 2, and 3 show noise reduction values and STC ratings for Plexiglas® sheet and other construction materials.TABLE 1
Noise Reduction Values for Plexiglas® Sheet
(Ten panels were 75 x 100 in)>
Noise Reduction Values for Plexiglas® Sheet
(Ten panels were 75 x 100 in)>
Approximate noise reduction-dB(A)
sheet thickness (in)>
sheet thickness (in)>
Frequency spectrum of noise source | 118* (3mm) | .236 (6mm) | .472 (12mm) | .944 (24mm) | double glazed** |
Low frequencies pre-dominant | 15 | 21 | 26 | 30 | 34 |
Flat frequency spectrum | 25 | 29 | 33 | 35 | 38 |
High frequencies predominant | 28 | 31 | 34 | 36 | 40 |
** 0.236" Plexiglas® sheet, air space, 0.177" Plexiglas sheet.
TABLE 2
Noise Ratings of Plexiglas® Sheet
Noise Ratings of Plexiglas® Sheet
Construction Thickness | STC |
Plexiglas® sheet (0.118")* | 25 |
Plexiglas® sheet (0.236") | 29 |
Plexiglas® sheet (0.472") | 33 |
Plexiglas® sheet (0.944") | 35 |
Plexiglas® sheet [(0.236") air space (0.177")] | 38 |
TABLE 3
Comparison of Noise Reduction Characteristics of Plexiglas® Sheet
With Other Materials
Construction material thickness | Approximate dB(A) noise reduction* |
Plexiglas® sheet (0.118") | 25 |
Plexiglas® sheet (0.236") | 29 |
Plexiglas® sheet (0.472") | 33 |
Plexiglas® sheet (0.944") | 35 |
Double glazed Plexiglas sheet | 38 |
Glass (1/8") | 25 |
Glass (1/4") | 27 |
Plywood (1") | 26 |
Steel (1/8") | 37 |
Sheet lead (1/16") | 38 |
Wood stud partition | 38 |
* Noise reduction obtained in enclosures depends on the completeness of the enclosure, tightness of joints, etc. The above as dB(A) noise reductions were obtained in a completely enclosed, tightly joined structure. These conditions are seldom achieved in the real world; however, even under more realistic conditions, the use of Plexiglas sheet barriers can reduce noise levels enough to protect against heavy damage. The main purpose of this table is to indicate the relative noise reduction capabilities of commonly used materials in terms of dB(A).
The statements, technical information and recommendations obtained herein are believed to be accurate as of the date hereof. Since the conditions and methods of use of the product and of the information referred to herein are beyond our control, ePlastics expressly disclaims any and all liability. NO WARRANTY OF FITNESS FOR ANY PARTICULAR PURPOSE, WARRANTY OR MERCHANTABILITY, OR ANY OTHER WARRANTY, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, IS MADE CONCERNING THE GOODS DESCRIBED OR THE INFORMATION PROVIDED HEREIN. The information provided herein relates only to the specific product designated and may not be applicable when such product is used in combination with other materials or in any process. The user should thoroughly test any application before commercialization. Nothing contained herein should be construed as an inducement to infringe any patent, and the user is advised to take appropriate steps to be sure that any proposed use of the product will not result in patent infringement. See MSDS for Health and Safety Considerations.