Atmospheric Effects on Highway Traffic Noise Propagation
Focus Area
Status
Cost
Timeframe
Noise
Unmet
$100,000-249,000
1-2 years
Scope
Problem Statement - Studies by several research groups have shown that the atmospheric refraction and scattering effects that occur on the sound wave propagating from a highway traffic source is a source of error during prediction and measurement. It is possible for noise levels to change by as much as 10 dB or more at a receptor location due to these atmospheric effects. This is a topic that is not easily understood by the Public. Proposed Research - Develop materials to help explain atmospheric effects on highway traffic noise. Include information on why noise mitigation is not effective in addressing this phenomenon. The deliverable will be a brochure that can be distributed to the public.
