Avaliação do condicionamento acústico de uma sala de aula com a implementação de painéis de lã de rocha: análise do tempo de reverberação

Abstract

The acoustic behavior of educational environments is crucial to the quality of the teaching-learning process. This study focuses on the analysis of the acoustic conditions of a classroom at the Federal University of Technology – Paraná (UTFPR), Guarapuava campus. The main objective of the research is to evaluate the objective parameter Reverberation Time (RT) through the incorporation of rock wool panels, which were installed on the classroom walls. The acoustic measurements were conducted using the impulse response method, following the procedures described in the ABNT NBR ISO 3382-1:2017 standard. Three different measure-ments were carried out: the first with the untreated classroom, the second with the panels fully exposed, and the third with the panels covered by a protective layer. The goal is to determine whether the installation of the panels leads to a significant reduction in RT, thereby improving speech intelligibility and overall acoustic comfort. Rock wool panels were chosen for their high sound absorption properties, particularly at higher frequencies, which are suitable for educational environments that demand effective acoustic control. The research showed that, prior to the installation of the panels, the classroom’s reverberation time was beyond the acceptable limits for learning spaces, impairing communication between teachers and students. After the installation and data analysis, a noticeable reduction in RT was observed, resulting in a significant improvement in the acoustic quality of the environment. With precise adjustments to the room’s geometric and material characteristics, it was possible to achieve a reverberation time closer to the ideal for educational settings, promoting better academic performance and auditory comfort for occupants.