The Science of Sound Absorption in Timber Acoustic Panels

Acoustics Panel

The Science of Sound Absorption in Timber Acoustic Panels

December 19, 2023
2:00 am

Understanding Sound Absorption

Sound absorption, a crucial aspect of acoustics, involves the conversion of sound energy into heat to reduce sound reflection. This is especially important in managing acoustical environments in auditoriums, recording studios, and office spaces.

Acoustic Performance of Timber

Studies have shown that timber acoustic panels are particularly adept at absorbing mid to high-frequency sounds. Enhancements for absorbing lower frequencies typically involve combining timber with other materials or employing specific design techniques¹.

Properties of Timber Acoustic Panels

Timber acoustic panels are renowned for both their aesthetic appeal and sound absorption capabilities. The effectiveness of these panels is influenced by several key factors.

Density and Porosity

The density and porosity of the timber are pivotal in determining its sound absorption efficiency. Generally, a higher density means better sound dissipation as heat. The porosity of the wood, indicated by the presence of small interconnected voids, aids in trapping sound waves, thereby enhancing absorption².

Surface Treatment

Surface treatments like perforations or grooves in timber panels significantly improve their sound absorption. These modifications increase the surface area, facilitating deeper sound wave penetration and more effective absorption³.

Thickness and Mounting

The thickness of timber panels and their mounting techniques also play a role in sound absorption. Thicker panels tend to absorb lower frequencies more efficiently, and various mounting methods can influence the range of frequencies that are absorbed⁴.

Environmental Benefits

Renewability

Beyond their acoustic properties, timber panels are favoured for their environmental benefits. Timber is a renewable resource, and its use in construction can lead to carbon sequestration, thus reducing the carbon footprint of building projects.

Choice of Substrate
Timber acoustic panels can choose from different grades of timber material for different green requirements. Specifications on VOCs, material toxicity and the like are frequent and common for projects. This is especially important for installations in sensitive industries, such as healthcare.

References

Cox, T. J., & D’Antonio, P. (2009). Acoustic Absorbers and Diffusers: Theory, Design, and Application. CRC Press. Retrieved from Acoustic Absorbers and Diffusers: Theory, Design, and Application.
Fouladi, M. H., Ayub, M., Nor, M. J. M., Leman, Z., & Ishak, I. S. (2012). Analysis of Acoustical Properties of Panels Made of Rubberwood Fibres. Applied Acoustics, 73(8), 781-789. Retrieved from Analysis of Acoustical Properties of Panels Made of Rubberwood Fibres.
Kang, J. (2007). Urban Sound Environment. CRC Press. Retrieved from Urban Sound Environment.

Published

December 19, 2023
2:00 am