I have previously written about seemingly authoritative sources providing incorrect information on the Internet. This article about soundproof wallpaper is another example.
It can be challenging for the average person to distinguish between accurate and misleading information, especially when the source appears authoritative. This is particularly true online, where content can look credible even if it isn’t. It’s important to approach everything you read with a critical eye and verify claims before accepting them as fact.
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Interesting research based on acoustic analysis of moth wings may lead to the design of more efficient sound-absorbing products. It is described in this article. Unfortunately, the seemingly authoritative source completely misrepresented the potential application of the research, as highlighted by the title of the article:
Soundproof wallpaper inspired by moth wings may finally quiet those noisy neighbors.
This research cannot lead to better sound-blocking products. It strictly deals with sound absorption. There is a fundamental difference between sound blocking and sound absorption, as described in my other blog article.
The problem with sound absorption is that for it to be effective at low frequencies, the sound-absorbing material must be very bulky, taking up space. For example, to absorb sound at 64 Hz, the sound-absorbing panels must be at least 50 cm (2 feet) thick. This thickness is often not feasible for installation in a smaller room. However, this "wallpaper" will not effectively block sound or soundproof.
If the research described in the article leads to a successful product, it will be a sound absorber. This absorber could be as thin as 5 cm (2 inches) instead of 50 cm thick. Still not a wallpaper thickness, but much more practical.
Soundproof wallpaper
And on a related topic, does soundproof wallpaper exist? The answer is yes; it is being advertised, for example. Many people look for soundproof wallpaper as a cheap way to do soundproofing. Does it work? It depends on your situation.
Notice that the manufacturer’s website does not provide quantitative noise reduction values. When companies omit such information, it often indicates that the results may not be impressive. Conversely, if a product truly performs well, manufacturers are usually eager to share measurable data.
The effectiveness of soundproof wallpaper depends mainly on the characteristics of your existing walls. In some cases, it may provide only minimal improvement, while in others, the results may be noticeable. Do not rely on incomplete or misleading claims from product manufacturers. Before investing in expensive and potentially ineffective soundproof wallpaper, consult a building acoustics expert to evaluate your specific situation.
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