1999•Unpublished venueRequires access
A COMPARISON OF THE VARIOUS METHODS USED IN THE REDUCTION OF ROAD TRAFFIC NOISE
A R Woodside, J O Hetherington, Wdh Woodward, G S Anderson
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Abstract
In many European countries, road traffic noise is considered to be one of the most important sources of environmental pollution. A recent study commissioned by the European Union indicates that of 186 million people in Europe who feel considerably annoyed by environmental noise, 125 million attribute this annoyance to road traffic noise. This fact alone not only justifies but renders imperative that the highest priority be given to measures that reduce the noise from this source. As road traffic noise is a general environmental problem it is open only to general solutions. Comprehensive planning for road traffic noise control incorporates 3 measures: (1) Traffic Management Policies - these may result in a move towards public transport, limit traffic in certain areas or at particular times of the day, alter vehicle speed, or make better use of land-use planning options. (2) Noise Mitigation Methods - these include improved building insulation and the use of tunnels and barriers, with the objective of reducing noise on the recipient. (3) Reduction at Source - this includes improvements in vehicle noise emission levels and changes in the road surface to reduce tyre/road noise. This paper considers the performane of these measures, both in economical and environmental terms. It also investigates the development of 'low noise' road surfaces. These surfaces reduce noise by providing a smooth wearing course, decreasing vibrationally induced noise and by providing air paths thus curtailing tyre 'air pumping'. Some surfaces, notably porous asphalts have a high sound absorption coefficient, which attenuates not only the tyre/road noise but also engine and exhaust noise. Experimental work has been carried out in order to optimise the sound absorption coefficient of road surfacing materials whilst ensuring other essential road properties such as safety, longevity are preserved without an increase in maintenance and cost. (A) For the covering abstract see IRRD E100657.