Investigating the correlation between the acoustic performance of solid and louvered acoustic screens for outdoor applications

This study aims to examine the relationship between the acoustic performance of solid and louvered screens in controlling airborne sound while enabling airflow. A range of products—a solid panel and four louvers—are installed in a mock environment of in-situ applications, and tested under varying test parameters (e.g., source-receiver positioning) to demonstrate dominant factors influencing in-situ performance of screened solutions. The role of Transmission Loss (TL) and Insertion Loss (IL) measures of products are briefly discussed, along with relevant international testing standards. By quantifying the correlation between test conditions and test outcomes, we describe the parameters within which we can seize acoustic benefits while promoting functional airflow. The findings inform best practices in the selection and placement of such components in noise-sensitive environments, while also bridging gaps between laboratory test methods and practical implementation of noise control solutions.