Acoustic Laboratory at InnoRenew CoE

The InnoRenew CoE research laboratories include also the acoustic laboratory where researchers carry out measurements in architectural and building acoustics, noise management and dynamic characterisation of structures. For the construction industry, they offer a range of laboratory and field measurements, such as measurements of sound insulation and room acoustics parameters, vibration, acoustic camera identification of sound sources, etc. Laboratory measurements are complemented by computer-based tools for predicting room acoustics, loudspeaker performance and predicted sound insulation.

In addition to market measurements and acoustic consultancy and design, the acoustic laboratory’s services are also important to industry in terms of research. The institute offers comprehensive expertise in the development, optimisation and characterisation of all materials and products for which acoustics is relevant. This includes measurements of the response of loudspeaker systems and their aural evaluation, measurements of the acoustic power and intensity of sound sources, acoustic absorption characterisation of materials and modal experimental analysis.

Besides the state-of-the-art measurement equipment itself, the modern research infrastructure of the acoustic laboratory, which includes an anechoic room and a reverberation room, is also crucial. Anechoic room with high sound absorbing surfaces allows for frequency and directional characterisation of sound sources and research into reverberation. The room also houses an Ambisonics loudspeaker system, which can be used to authentically recreate different acoustic environments, allowing researchers to investigate the impact of sound on humans. In the reverberation room, the long acoustic response allows measurements to be made in an approximation of a diffuse sound field. This allows measurements to be made to determine the absorption properties of materials and the acoustic power of sound sources in accordance with industry measurement standards.

For the broader society, the research conducted in the InnoRenew CoE’s acoustic laboratory is extremely important, as it enables the introduction of new materials into construction. The institute supports new and advanced possibilities for the use of renewable and environmentally friendly solutions, for which they are seeking acoustic functionality. This is further strengthened by the interdisciplinary nature of InnoRenew CoE, which allows for a comprehensive research approach. Therefore, the research conducted in the acoustic laboratory is also aimed at improving the well-being in the built environment, where they strive to achieve a high level of acoustic comfort, thus enhancing health and productivity of users.