Field measurements of acoustic quality in university classrooms

This paper evaluates acoustic quality of university classrooms in terms of acoustical parameters [external and internal equivalent sound pressure level, reverberation time(RT) and sound insulation of facades]. Field measurements of equivalent sound pressure level were taken during daytime using sound pressure level meter according to NBR 10152 standard. Sound signatures were analyzed by real-time sound analyzer. Only one classroom of BG building exhibited internal equivalent sound pressure level exceeding permissible value of 50 dB(A). RT values, measured in PC Building, were in 6 classrooms in accordance with recommended values from international standards. On the other hand, in BG building, RT measured in all classrooms exceeded established limits. Only completely occupied classrooms in BG building exhibited better acoustic quality in terms of RT as compared to partially occupied and empty classrooms. Apparent weighted sound reduction indices of facades of both buildings showed values far below those recommended by international standard as DIN 4109.

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