Reverberation – causes, effects and solutions for optimal sound insulation
Reverberation refers to the prolongation of a sound through the reflection of sound waves off walls, ceilings or other hard surfaces. A high level of reverberation leads to poor speech intelligibility, increased noise pollution and unpleasant room acoustics. Strong reverberation can cause acoustic problems, particularly in industrial halls, machine rooms, vehicle cabins and buses.
The solution lies in targeted sound absorption to reduce reverberation and create pleasant acoustics.
How does reverberation occur?
Reverberation occurs when sound waves hit hard, sound-reflecting surfaces and are reflected multiple times. This results in a prolonged sound, which has a negative effect on acoustics.
- In industrial and machine halls – amplification of machine noise due to reflections from walls and ceilings
- In vehicle cabins and buses – communication made difficult by sound-reflective surfaces
- In production areas – high noise pollution for employees due to reverberating working environments
- In passenger areas – unpleasant background noise due to uninsulated vehicle panelling
Cellofoam sound insulation solutions for reducing reverberation
To reduce reverberation, Cellofoam offers tailor-made sound insulation solutions for various applications:
✔ Acoustic foams and acoustic fleeces – reduce sound reflections on walls and ceilings
✔ Heavy- foil combinations – Minimise reverberation & improve speech intelligibility
✔ Sound-insulating panelling for vehicles & buses – Ensure a quieter passenger environment
✔ Ceiling panels & wall absorbers for industrial halls – Reduce the overall noise level & improve the working environment
Areas of application for noise reduction
- Vehicle technology & buses
Quieter passenger areas & optimised interior acoustics
- Mechanical engineering & industrial halls
Noise reduction through sound-absorbing surfaces
- Rail vehicles
Prevention of disruptive reflections in passenger compartments & driver's cabs
- Housing & cabin construction
Noise reduction in machine rooms & technical facilities
- Offices / nurseries / call centres
Reduce reverberation and improve speech intelligibility

Why is noise reduction important?
✔ Improved speech intelligibility – Clear communication in buses, vehicle cabins and industrial halls
✔ Less noise pollution – More pleasant working environment and increased comfort for passengers
✔ Increased product quality – Higher-quality acoustics in vehicles, machines and industrial halls
✔ Compliance with noise protection guidelines – Optimal adaptation to acoustic standards in vehicle and machine construction
Conclusion
A high level of reverberation can significantly impair acoustics in machine halls, vehicles and buses. Cellofoam's highly efficient sound absorbers minimise sound reflections, reduce reverberation and optimise speech intelligibility – for a quieter and more pleasant environment.
This not only improves the acoustic conditions for technical systems, but also increases well-being, reduces stress and promotes concentration for people who spend time or work in these spaces.