A method for testing and rating the acoustic performance of caulking compounds

摘要

Inadequate sealing of edge gaps of building partitions (walls, ceilings etc.) can adversely affect the acoustic insulation of a building partition, with consequent loss of amenity to building occupants. Measuring and rating the effectiveness of caulking compounds to protect against such adverse effects is somewhat problematic for a variety of reasons. This paper proposes a method based on ISO 10140-1 Amendment 1 Annex J, and AS/NZS ISO 717.1:2004 to enable laboratory measurement of sound transmission through controlled gaps sealed with the compound under test, and determination of the suitability of such compounds for use in sealing building partitions with specified acoustic insulation requirements. Some examples are provided, from laboratory experiments with test-gaps sealed by different means, demonstrating the outcome of the proposed method in a variety of circumstances.