In situ 3D analysis of road noise propagation in a residential area
Real three-dimensional analysis proving that low frequency is the determining factor of impact on dwellings.
The challenge
SNA Acoustic Consultancy developed an in situ three-dimensional analysis study to evaluate the propagation of noise generated by a road and its direct impact on nearby residential areas.
The objective was not merely to determine overall levels, but to understand how different frequency bands behave during propagation towards dwellings: which components attenuate naturally and which maintain their capacity for impact at distance.
The solution
Using advanced 3D spatial measurement technology, the real behaviour of the acoustic field in the urban environment was analysed, evaluating noise distribution at different points, heights and façades.
The analysis revealed the natural attenuation phenomenon of mid and high frequencies due to distance, atmospheric absorption and interaction with buildings. However, the study confirmed that low-frequency components maintain significantly greater propagation capacity, reaching residential dwellings with much less attenuation than the rest of the spectrum.
The result
The technical conclusion was clear: in all scenarios analysed, low frequency constitutes the determining factor of acoustic impact on dwellings, while mid and high frequencies are partially damped during propagation. This type of real three-dimensional analysis transforms the subjective perception of annoyance into an objective technical diagnosis, providing a solid basis for defining effective corrective measures adapted to the actual physical behaviour of traffic noise.
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