A game-changing screw that cuts noise in half
Imagine halving the noise from your next-door neighbour simply by swapping out a few screws in your wall. This is precisely what Håkan Wernersson, a researcher at the University of Malmö, has achieved. Working within the realm of the Department of Materials Science and Applied Mathematics, Wernersson has developed a novel screw capable of significantly diminishing sound transmission between walls.
This innovative tool, aptly named the Sound Screw, is engineered to disrupt sound waves. Its effectiveness lies in its unique design: the screw features a spring at its core, which absorbs sound waves while anchoring drywall to wooden beams. Instead of letting the noise penetrate through to your living space, the spring dissipates it, ensuring that the racket from noisy neighbours stays just that—over there.
Real-world applications: from labs to local businesses
The initial findings are promising. In laboratory acoustic assessments, the Sound Screw has demonstrated an impressive reduction of nine decibels—essentially halving the perceived noise level using standard drywall. Additionally, these screws have undergone testing in practical environments, like a hair salon, where they replaced conventional screws without needing to remove the existing ceiling plaster. The positive outcomes suggest that these screws perform just as effectively in day-to-day settings.
Wernersson points out that there are stringent regulations surrounding sound insulation in apartment complexes, and the Sound Screw could help builders meet these requirements. It’s particularly beneficial for single-family homes looking to dampen internal noise without undertaking extensive renovations.
Additionally, save space while reducing noise
A further advantage of the Sound Screw is its potential for space savings. Conventional insulation and soundproofing methods often necessitate additional layers and materials, consuming valuable space. However, with this innovative screw, you can mount drywall directly to the walls, preserving precious floor and ceiling area. As Wernersson aptly notes, “One square metre of floor space can be worth thousands of euros, and our screw maximises that.”
Looking ahead: further testing for a quieter future
While the Sound Screw holds great promise, additional testing in everyday settings is essential to fully understand its long-term efficacy. Nevertheless, interest in this product is burgeoning. Companies from as far afield as South America and Japan are already investigating the integration of these screws into their construction practices.
This uncomplicated yet effective solution could drastically improve the quality of life for those living in discerningly noisy surroundings, providing a cost-effective and space-saving means for achieving a more tranquil living space. It exemplifies how a little innovation can yield substantial benefits in our daily routines. So, the next time you’re disturbed by the sounds of life beyond your four walls, consider how a few Sound Screws could potentially bring back that much-needed peace and quiet.
