Guide to distinguishing acoustic panels: what is absorption and what is soundproofing?

A recurring response when first talking about the world of acoustics is the confusion with soundproofing. However, they have nothing to do with each other, just like comparing football and basketball: same element but a different discipline.

Facing this situation that we encounter repeatedly, today we provide a brief explanation to resolve those doubts between absorption and soundproofing in the world of acoustic comfort.

So, what is acoustic soundproofing? It is the construction process by which, through the use of various materials, sound is prevented from passing from one room to an adjoining one through the walls. Usually, acoustic soundproofing is addressed through the interior conditioning of the walls. Sound-insulating materials are introduced between the partitions that form the room, preventing sound from passing through them.

Soundproofing: prevents sound from passing from one room to an adjacent one through walls or ceilings. Absorption: improves acoustics inside a room by avoiding annoying echoes and reverberation.

What about acoustic absorption? It is the process by which acoustic materials are used to prevent sound waves from bouncing off room surfaces, causing echoes and reverberation. In this way, room noise decreases, speech intelligibility increases, acoustic stress is reduced, and all kinds of illnesses are prevented.

There are many ways to treat echo and reverberation in a room, although one of the best known is through the installation of acoustic panels, though it is also important to differentiate materials. Only some provide professional absorption, comply with fire regulations, and guarantee durability. Others are simply nice decoration.

Tags: sound absorption · isinac