Acoustical sound proofing material with improved fracture characteristics and methods for manufacturing same

Abstract

A material for use in building construction (partition, wall, ceiling, floor or door) that exhibits improved acoustical sound proofing and fracture characteristics optimized for efficient installation. The material comprises a laminated structure having as an integral part thereof one or more layers of viscoelastic material which also functions both as a glue and as an energy dissipating layer; and one or more constraining layers, such as gypsum or cement-based panel products modified for easy fracture. In one embodiment, standard paper-faced wallboard, typically gypsum, comprises the external surfaces of the laminated structure with the inner surface of said wallboard being bare with no paper or other material being placed thereon. The resulting structure improves the attenuation of sound transmitted through the structure while also allowing installation of the sound proofing material as efficiently as the installation of standard material when the sound proofing material is used alone or incorporated into a partition assembly.

Description

Background technique [0001] Sound control constitutes a rapidly growing economic and public policy concern for the construction industry. Areas with high acoustic isolation (commonly referred to as "soundproofing") are needed and required for various purposes. Apartments, suites, hotels, schools and hospitals all require walls, ceilings and floors that are specially designed to reduce sound transmission in order to minimize or eliminate disturbance to people in adjacent rooms. Sound insulation is especially important in homes close to public transport, such as motorways, airports and road lines. Additionally, theater and home theaters, music practice rooms, recording studios, etc. require enhanced noise attenuation for acceptable listening levels. Likewise, hospitals and mass healthcare facilities have begun to realize that acoustic comfort is an important part of a patient's recovery period. One measure of the severity of the multi-residential and commercial noise control ...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

For the damage to the U.S. economy, two problems resulted: the refusal of large builders to build houses, condominiums, and condos in some urban areas; and the cancellation of builders' liability insurance

However, low flexural strength is required when the panels are scored by the craftsman (e.g. with a utility knife) for assembly and installation

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