Achieving Structural Safety And Acoustics In Modern Architecture - Part 2

Achieving structural safety and acoustics in modern architecture include HUMAN SAFETY, FIRE SAFETY , and ACOUSTIC COMFORT. Mr. Sriram N, IGBC accredited professional and GRIHA Trainer discusses the types of glasses that are suitable for achieving safety in modern buildings.

FIRE SAFETY

Fire glazed fire safety provides clear visibility of fire source and trapped person. Hence, it gives quicker identification and faster extinguishment of fire. There are 3 glasses in fire performance classifications - E CLASS, EW CLASS, and the EI CLASS.

ACOUSTIC INSULATION

Sound transmissions travel faster through solids, slower through air and cannot travel through a vacuum. The energy reduces with increasing distance from source and decays.

For glass acoustics ,specific glass can be useful, like, Monolithic single that is non laminated glass or a laminated single or Double - glazing or Acoustical double glazing.

In the monolithic single , the thicker the better acoustic insulation. Since it is thicker it is heavier and thus has less tendency to vibrate.

In the laminated glass, the thicker the better as well. Since PVB interlayer provides a sound absorptive barrier, and reduces resonant frequency problem.

In the insulation glazed unit it carries a double resonating dip and symmetrical combination –poor acoustic performance, also asymmetrical combination to enhance acoustic performance.

In the insulated lamination glass , integration of acoustic insulation with thermal and comfort with superior performance than IGU is seen.