BS EN ISO 354:2003

BS EN ISO 354:2003 Overview

BS EN ISO 354:2003 is a standard in acoustics that specifies the method for measuring the sound absorption coefficient of materials used in buildings, such as wall or ceiling treatments. The standard also measures the equivalent sound absorption area of objects like furniture, people, or other space absorbers within a reverberation room.

Key Features:

1. Measurement Method:
   • The standard details the procedure for setting up and using a reverberation room to measure how well different materials and objects absorb sound. The primary aim is to determine the sound absorption coefficient, which helps in assessing the acoustic performance of these materials.
2. Scope:
   • It applies to materials and objects used in building interiors, including wall panels, ceiling treatments, and various other objects that contribute to absorption within a space. However, it is not intended for measuring the absorption characteristics of weakly damped resonators.
3. Frequency Range:
   • Measurements are taken across a specified frequency range to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the material’s acoustic properties. This includes measurements in one-third octave bands over a wide range of frequencies.
4. Test Arrangement:
   • Detailed instructions are provided for the setup of the reverberation room, ensuring sound field diffusion. The standard specifies the positioning of test specimens, as well as the conditions for temperature and relative humidity during testing.
5. Measurement Techniques:
   • The standard includes methods like the interrupted noise method and the integrated impulse response method for measuring reverberation time. These methods help in evaluating the decay curves, which are essential for calculating the absorption coefficients.
6. Expression of Results:
   • The results are expressed through specific calculation methods, ensuring precision and consistency. The standard also outlines how these results should be presented in test reports.

Importance and Application:

BS EN ISO 354:2003 is crucial for professionals involved in the design and assessment of building acoustics. Architects, engineers, and acousticians use this standard to select materials that enhance absorption, thereby improving the acoustic quality of indoor environments. The results obtained from these measurements can be used for comparison purposes and to inform design decisions aimed at noise control and room acoustics optimization.

For more related standards, see our Technical Standards Library here