
Sound absorption coefficient
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Nyquist Team
Comparing acoustic materials based on complex frequency charts can be difficult and unintuitive for investors. The sound absorption coefficient helps by reducing the material properties to a single, easily interpretable number, facilitating quick selection of solutions.

Professional Definition
The practical sound absorption coefficient reduced to a single numerical value according to the method specified in the PN-EN 11654 standard.
This usually refers to the weighted sound absorption indicator, denoted by the symbol αw (alpha w). This value ranges from 0.00 to 1.00, calculated by overlaying a reference curve on the measured values in octave bands. Based on this indicator, materials are assigned sound absorption classes (from A – highest, to E – lowest), allowing for quick categorization of building products.
Acoustics in Simple Words
This indicator acts like the absorption rating of a sponge, but in relation to sound rather than water. Imagine pouring a cup of water onto a surface:
A value of 0.00 represents a concrete floor or mirror – the water (sound) splashes and returns to the room almost entirely (total reflection).
A value of 1.00 represents a wide-open window frame – the water (sound) flies outside and nothing comes back (total absorption).
If an acoustic panel has an indicator of 0.80, it means that it
See also
Office / Showroom
Production / Warehouse
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