STATE-OF-THE-ART APPROACHES TO URBAN NOISE DISTRESS: ORIGIN AND CONTROL

Abstract

This paper offers a brief introduction to urban noise distress and its effects on city dwellers. Within the general frame of noise control treatments in a typical planning of applied acoustics engineering, State-of-the-art solutions to abate noise troubles originated by passing vehicles in highways and motorways and their possible solutions are discussed. Classic methods for dampening sound immersion in affected zones by means of acoustic barriers are then commented in detail, mentioning the lines of action taken currently to develop and achieve this type of acoustic solutions. The final conclusion is that this technique, which has been the object of constant innovations, still is the best known and tested one.