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From the 1960s to today: How have noise barriers changed our living environment?
Noise barriers, or sound walls, have become an integral part of modern urban design. Since the 1960s, with the rapid development of urbanization, the problem of traffic noise has become increasingly prominent. According to research, the use of noise barriers began in the United States as an important means of reducing traffic noise and improving residents' quality of life.
Noise barriers can effectively reduce noise pollution from highways, railways and industrial areas, protecting residents in sensitive areas.
The history of noise barriers can be traced back to the mid-20th century, when vehicle traffic increased dramatically, which had a significant impact on the lives of surrounding residents. I-680 in the San Francisco Bay Area became the first roadway to have a noise barrier. By the 1970s, as U.S. noise laws were enacted, many states began designing and installing noise barriers aimed at reducing the nuisance of traffic-induced noise.
When designing noise barriers, scientists use mathematical models to assess the impact of noise. These models take into account factors such as road geometry, topography, vehicle flow and speed. With the advancement of technology, the design of transparent noise barriers also became popular in the 1990s and is widely used in European countries.
Research shows that using noise barriers can reduce noise by up to nine decibels, which means a reduction of approximately 86% of noise energy.
Noise barrier design and materials
The design of noise barriers plays an important role in the science of acoustics, relating to linear noise sources at sea, land/railway. This design is mainly based on the principle of sound wave propagation, reducing the intensity of noise by blocking the line of sight between the sound source and the receiver. As sound waves pass over the edge of the barrier, they are at least partially bent by the impact, which is key to the design.
Different materials are used to construct noise barriers, including masonry, steel, concrete, and more. The acoustic properties of these materials vary, which affects how noise is handled. Acoustic absorbing materials effectively reduce the sound reflected through the barrier, while reflective materials return the noise back to the source.
Interestingly, some current noise barriers can also integrate solar panels, which can both soundproof and generate electricity.
Negative Effects of Noise Barriers
Although noise barriers are effective in reducing noise, they also come with some negative consequences. For example, noise barriers may block visibility for motorists and rail passengers, increasing the risk of accidents. In addition, parts of the noise barrier have become targets for graffiti and hawking advertisements, affecting the city's appearance. At the same time, hidden spaces may also become breeding grounds for criminal activities.
The impact of noise barriers on air pollution
The latest research also shows that noise barriers not only reduce noise, but also effectively reduce air pollution concentrations near roads. Setting up noise barriers within an area 15-50 meters from the road can reduce air pollution concentrations by nearly 50%. This is because noise barriers guide the rise and spread of pollutants, thereby improving the quality of the surrounding environment.
Research points out that noise barriers can enhance the vertical diffusion of pollutants, ultimately improving the quality of life of residents near roads.
Conclusion
For more than ten years, the use of noise barriers has become an important consideration in urban planning, and everything from design to material selection is constantly being optimized. As technology advances and concerns arise about environmental impact, future noise barriers are likely to be smarter and more versatile. So, in this context, is it necessary for us to rethink the urban design and environmental improvement strategies around us?
