Course:VANT149/2025/Capstone/Science/Team14

Abstract

This study investigates the sound attenuation characteristics of different materials under

astrictly controlled experimental procedure. With the use of a white noise generator

combined with the Decibel X app for acoustic measurement, the study

comparedthecontrol noise levels with those measured when the noise source was

covered by different materials. Materials tested included acoustic foam panels,

cardboard, acrylic, a downjacket, and glass. Results showed that acoustic foam panels

recorded a significant noiselevel reduction, measured at 32.9%, in line with their porous

structure designedtomaximize sound absorption. The down jacket registered moderate

noise reductionat 16.5%, taking advantage of its insulating fibers. In contrast, cardboard

and acrylicshowed minimal sound attenuation, with a predominance of reflecting sound

waves as opposed to absorption. Glass was the worst performing material, registering

only a 1.73%reduction, reflecting noise back into the environment mostly. The results

showtheparamount importance of material choice for noise reduction purposes, with

significant implications for environmental design and acoustic engineering. Keywords: Noise reduction, Decibel measurement, White noise

Biographies

Person 1

Boliang Jiang is a first-year student in the Faculty of Science at the University of British

Columbia. His research focuses on exploring the soundproofing performance of

different materials and their practical applications. He is personally interested in this

topic because of its significance in improving urban living environments and

architectural design.

Person 2

May Wei is a first year student in Science Program at University of British Columbia.

Her research focuses on Effectiveness of Diverse Materials in Reducing Noise. She is

looking forward to learning more about sustainable materials and their applications in

energy efficiency and noise pollution at the conference.

Person 3