Full-scale tests of reflective noise-reducing devices for balconies on high-rise buildings

In the present report, the noise-shielding efficiency of balconies with ceiling-mounted reflectors on the façades of high-rise buildings is examined through full-scale field measurements. The reflectors are designed to reflect direct and diffracted waves incident on the balcony ceiling outside the balcony. Field measurements are conducted to investigate the performance of the reflectors on intermediate floors of a high-rise dwelling adjacent to a railway. The reflectors reduce railway noise by approximately 5 dB, in A-weighted sound pressure level, compared to an ordinary balcony. The noise-shielding efficiency of a balcony equipped with reflectors is greater than that of an absorbing balcony.