ASTM E90

Definition

ASTM E90 is a standard test method developed by ASTM International for measuring the sound transmission loss of building materials and assemblies. This test is crucial for evaluating how well different materials, such as walls, ceilings, and floors, can block sound, which is essential for creating environments with desired acoustic properties in various applications like residential buildings, commercial spaces, and industrial facilities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. ASTM E90 provides standardized procedures for measuring the sound transmission loss in a laboratory setting, allowing for consistency and comparability of results across different studies.
2. The test measures the reduction of sound energy as it passes through a material or assembly, with higher transmission loss values indicating better sound insulation performance.
3. Results from ASTM E90 testing are often used in building codes and regulations to ensure that structures meet minimum sound insulation requirements.
4. Materials tested can include various types of wall assemblies, doors, windows, and floor constructions, providing a comprehensive understanding of their acoustic performance.
5. ASTM E90 is commonly referenced in conjunction with other standards, such as ASTM E413, which defines the STC rating system based on the results obtained from ASTM E90 tests.

Review Questions

• How does ASTM E90 contribute to the design and construction of buildings with specific acoustic requirements?
  • ASTM E90 plays a vital role in the design and construction of buildings by providing standardized testing methods that assess the sound transmission loss of various materials. This information helps architects and engineers choose appropriate materials to achieve desired acoustic performance levels. By ensuring that building elements meet specific sound insulation criteria, ASTM E90 helps create environments that enhance comfort and reduce noise disturbances in residential, commercial, and industrial spaces.
• Discuss the importance of the Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating in relation to the results obtained from ASTM E90 testing.
  • The Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating is critical because it simplifies and summarizes the results obtained from ASTM E90 testing into a single number. This allows builders and designers to easily compare different materials' effectiveness in blocking sound. An understanding of STC ratings aids stakeholders in making informed decisions about material choices based on their acoustic performance needs while ensuring compliance with relevant building codes.
• Evaluate how the application of ASTM E90 testing affects building regulations and standards related to acoustic performance in urban environments.
  • The application of ASTM E90 testing significantly influences building regulations and standards related to acoustic performance, especially in urban environments where noise pollution is a concern. As cities become denser and noise from transportation and activities increases, regulatory bodies incorporate findings from ASTM E90 tests to establish stricter requirements for sound insulation in new constructions. This impacts not only material selection but also design strategies aimed at enhancing residents' quality of life by minimizing noise interference, ultimately leading to more sustainable urban living conditions.

Related terms

Sound Transmission Class (STC): A single-number rating system that quantifies how well a building element attenuates airborne sound, based on ASTM E90 testing.

Decibel (dB): A logarithmic unit used to measure sound intensity, crucial in assessing sound levels before and after passing through materials tested under ASTM E90.

Acoustic Insulation: Materials specifically designed to reduce sound transmission between spaces, often tested for effectiveness using the ASTM E90 method.