Characterization of Earplug Performance using Dummy Head Microphone Measurements

Abstract: This study evaluated the sound insulation properties of three distinct types of earplugs: Plug type A, Plug type B (both silicone), and a form type (polyurethane foam). The experiment employed a dummy head to account for the shape of the human head and ears when testing the earplugs’ sound insulation properties against white noise and sine waves. All three types of earplugs demonstrated significant noise attenuation within the frequency range of approximately 2500-4000 Hz when exposed to white noise. In the case of sine waves at 400 Hz, the largest discrepancy was observed when comparing conditions with and without earplugs. Specifically, the difference was approximately -11.9 dB for plug type A, -6.7 dB for plug type B, and -9.5 dB for the foam type. These findings provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of different earplug types in reducing noise levels.

Keywords: Sound insulation, Ear plug, White noise, Sine wave noise, Frequency

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1004266

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