Research Laboratory Acoustics in Universities & Higher Education

Acoustic performance in a research laboratory directly impacts the functionality and occupant experience of universities & higher education buildings. The RT60 target of ≤0.8s is set to ensure that the space meets its intended purpose, whether that involves speech intelligibility, noise control, or sound isolation from adjacent areas.

The key metric of NR 35–40 addresses the primary acoustic concern for this room type. Achieving this target typically requires a combination of absorptive surface treatments, appropriate construction mass, and careful attention to flanking paths and HVAC noise contributions.

Managing variable occupancy from 20% to 100% capacity in lecture theatres, where absorption from audience seating dramatically shifts RT60 and STI between empty rehearsal and full lecture conditions.