Acoustic and structural design of a highway noise barrier

Abstract

Highway noise barriers are designed to mitigate the effects of traffic noise along the highway. Noise barriers primarily block the direct path of the sound between the source on the highway and the receiver exposed to the sound. Noise mitigation capability, aesthetics, cost and constructability and structural capacity against wind and earthquake loads are critical parameters to be considered in noise barrier design. The height and length of a noise barrier are determined by acoustical considerations, aesthetics and cost. In addition, the structural design of the noise barrier should meet the established standards. The aim of this study is to evaluate the noise mitigation capabilities, aesthetic features and costs of acoustic designs for the residential buildings located near the urban highway and evaluate the structural performances against wind and earthquake. Through the interviews, the designs higher than 10m are not found acceptable by the residents and also due to the aesthetic concerns the upper part of the noise barrier is set to be constructed as glass. Therefore, the noise reduction capabilities and construction cost and the alternatives that complies with the constraints are determined and the corresponding costs are calculated accordingly. Noise simulation software is used to identify the effectiveness of selected noise barriers and structural analysis and design software is used to evaluate the structural performance. The results show that designed precast lightweight concrete and glass composite noise barrier meet the required noise reduction goal along with a resilient structural performance and affordable cost.