ETICS measurements and prediction - Verification and validation of a predictive model for the improvement of airborne sound insulation of thick external linings

The increasing demand of the reduction of carbon emissions and the consumption of energy resources due to the construction sector leads to the concept of Zero-Energy buildings. It is therefore crucial ensuring technical and engineering compatibility between future advancements in energy efficiency and sound insulation. The sound insulation requirements for residential buildings are mandatory in Italian Regulations, tested on-site after construction completion. A noteworthy challenge is the potential synergy between specifications for energy efficiency and sound insulation properties in building materials. This paper deals with the validation of the prediction model for the improvement of airborne sound insulation due to thick external linings, particularly materials used in ETICS (External Thermal Insulation System), based on mechanical properties of involved materials. Standard ISO 9052-1 for the determination of dynamic stiffness is intended for materials used under floating floors in dwellings. However, based on the methods of this standard, it is possible to perform measurements (with both hammer and shaker) even on thick linings materials and use the results for the implementation of computational models for the predictions of improvement of sound reduction index, as a function of frequency, with good accuracy.