Integrating a parametric tool in design process to improve the acoustic behavior of the asphalt finishing materials: A case study for housing typologies for low- and middle-income residents

The paper introduces a framework for comprehensive simulation workflow of the built environment using the Pachyderm Acoustics plugin inside the Grasshopper 3D interface. It aims to model the shared relationship between residential buildings and hardscape. The findings indicate different levels of absorption and scattering coefficient in reference to the hardscape specifications during the A-weighted SPL measurements and varying intensities of sound power energy source wave emissions. The author evaluated and simulated a seven-zoned district using two hardscape materials’ specifications. Results indicate that medium sound power intensity has the greatest impact on noise reduction, with a value in the range of 1.5 dB(A) to 5.9 dB(A), the lowest power is 1.3 dB(A) to 3.2 dB(A) and the highest power is 1 dB(A) to 3.5 dB(A). Additionally, the shielding effect occurring between buildings aids in noise reduction due to the multitude and long paths of sound rays that can mitigate the embodied energy.