In the relentless pursuit of quieter environments, researchers have long grappled with the challenge of low-frequency noise. Traditional soundproofing methods often fall short, particularly in the energy sector, where machinery and equipment generate persistent, low-frequency hums. However, a breakthrough from the National University of Defense Technology in Changsha, China, offers a promising solution. Led by Boxin Chang, a team of scientists has developed a novel metamaterial that could revolutionize noise control engineering.
The key to their innovation lies in a multilayer composite plate-type metamaterial (MCPM), designed to overcome the limitations of conventional sound insulation techniques. “The classical mass law has been a significant barrier in achieving superior sound transmission loss at low frequencies,” explains Chang, who is affiliated with the College of Intelligence Science and Technology and the National Key Laboratory of Equipment State Sensing and Smart Support. “Our MCPM, however, can achieve an excellent diffuse sound transmission loss over an ultra-broadband low-frequency range.”
The MCPM consists of two single-layer metamaterial plates sandwiching a layer of porous material. Each metamaterial plate is constructed from a thin plate attached with periodic strip masses, a design that is both simple and effective. The team’s theoretical analysis and experimental verification have demonstrated the MCPM’s superior performance in blocking low-frequency noise, making it a potential game-changer for industries plagued by persistent, low-frequency hums.
For the energy sector, the implications are significant. Power plants, wind farms, and other energy infrastructure often struggle with noise pollution, which can impact both worker health and community relations. The MCPM’s ability to insulate against low-frequency noise could lead to quieter, more efficient operations, enhancing both productivity and public acceptance.
Moreover, the MCPM’s design allows for easy integration into existing structures, making it a cost-effective solution for retrofitting older facilities. “Our goal is to provide a practical, scalable solution for noise control engineering,” says Chang. “The MCPM’s simple construction and superior performance make it an ideal candidate for a wide range of applications.”
The research, published in Composites Part C: Open Access, translates to English as “Composites Part C: Open Access” opens the door to further exploration and development. As the technology matures, it could pave the way for quieter cities, more efficient industries, and a better quality of life for all. The future of noise control engineering is here, and it’s quieter than ever before.