Analysis of façade sound insulation field measurements - Comparison of different performance descriptors and influence of low frequencies extension

This paper presents the results of a research study undertaken as part of two Short Term Scientific Missions (STSM) of European COST Action TU0901, carried out at the Construction Technologies Institute ITC CNR of Milan with the aim to review, analyse and interpret substantial field data relating to the façade sound insulation. The host institution ITC has collected a database that can be considered unique of its kind taking into account that on-site façade sound insulation measurements are less frequent and more complicated than interior walls sound insulation measurements. To collect data for this database the many prominent Bodies have cooperated with ITC and provided its own data in the context of the STSM work. This paper focuses on the comparative analysis of different performance descriptors for the façade sound insulation emphasizing in particular on the influence of low frequencies extension of the measurements and the evaluation of single number quantities and providing useful information for future regulations and standards.