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Structural — Acoustic Material Guide

Structural acoustic components like resilient channels decouple plasterboard from studs and joists to break vibration transmission paths. While their primary function is improving sound insulation (STC/Rw), they contribute some low-frequency panel absorption through the resilient mounting. They are a critical component of sound-rated wall and ceiling assemblies in residential and commercial construction.

Materials
1
NRC Range
0.10
Avg NRC
0.10

Products in This Category

MaterialNRCαwApplications
Resilient Channel (RC-1)0.100.10Wall (behind plasterboard), Ceiling (behind plasterboard)

Average Absorption Profile

Average absorption coefficients across all structural materials at each octave band frequency.

125 Hz
0.20
250 Hz
0.12
500 Hz
0.08
1000 Hz
0.05
2000 Hz
0.04
4000 Hz
0.04
Frequency (Hz)125250500100020004000
Avg α0.200.120.080.050.040.04

Best Applications

Room types and environments that benefit most from structural materials:

Multi-family residential
Hotels
Studios
Healthcare
Education

Related Standards

International and national standards relevant to structural selection, testing, and specification:

ASTM E90ASTM E413 (STC)ISO 10140IBC 2021 Section 1207NCC 2022 F5

Installation Notes

Resilient channels must be installed with the open side facing down and only screwed through the flange, never through the web. Bridging with misplaced screws completely negates the decoupling effect. Maximum screw spacing is 300mm along the flange.

Typical thickness: 13mm channel + plasterboard

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