Menu

Plasmacoustics

Challenges in Noise Control: Limitations of Traditional Methods

Noise pollution disrupts environments from homes to highways, requiring effective noise control solutions. Passive methods, such as acoustic barriers and sound-absorbing materials, are valued for their straightforward design and effectiveness at higher frequencies. These solutions block or absorb sound waves, making them useful in many scenarios. However, their weight, bulk and limited performance below 1 kHz reduce their practicality in compact or complex environments, leaving critical gaps in noise control.

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technologies, on the other hand, counteract sound waves by generating anti-noise signals, offering precise control within targeted areas. While effective at low frequencies, ANC’s focus on specific control points limits its ability to manage noise across 3D spaces. Its complexity and higher cost further constrain its use in many applications. These challenges highlight the need for innovative approaches to address low-frequency noise in dynamic, expansive environments.

Siless Liner Sound Insulation
Butyl Sound Dampening for Automotive
Movement of the plasmacoustic metalayer under modulating control voltage

Revolutionising Noise Control: The Plasmacoustic Metalayer

The Plasmacoustic Metalayer, a patented breakthrough, introduces a novel plasma-based approach to noise control through active impedance manipulation. By generating a controlled corona discharge, the system forms an ionised gas layer that functions as a mass-less, compliance-free diaphragm. Unlike conventional mechanical diaphragms, this ionised layer is unencumbered by inertia or resonance effects, enabling instantaneous response to incident acoustic waves.

Response of disabled Plasmapanel to an incident sound wave Response of enabled Plasmapanel to the same incident sound wave

Plasma-based Active Sound Absorption

The Plasmacoustic Metalayer can be configured for active sound absorption, offering an advanced solution to complex noise control challenges. In this configuration, acoustic signals captured in front of the ionised gas layer are electronically processed to generate a control signal. This signal dynamically modulates the movement of the plasma layer, establishing a controlled acoustic impedance across its surface. By precisely tuning the interaction between the layer and incoming sound waves, the system efficiently absorbs sound while minimising reflections, effectively dissipating energy across a broad frequency range.

This innovative approach excels in addressing low-frequency noise, a range where conventional methods often fall short. Leveraging the unique properties of the ionised gas layer, the Plasmacoustic Metalayer achieves unparalleled precision and efficiency in noise attenuation, far surpassing the capabilities of traditional passive materials and active noise cancellation systems. Compact, scalable, and adaptable, it meets the demands of challenging acoustic environments, setting a new benchmark in noise management for applications requiring precision, flexibility, and high performance.

Have a project in mind?

Get in touch

About us

Sonexos is a Swiss-based engineering company specialising in advanced audio and sound technologies. We develop innovative solutions in audio enhancement and active sound control, supplying these to global customers in the automotive, consumer, mass transportation, and industrial sectors.

One of our standout innovations is the Plasmapanel, a technology that applies advanced active sound absorption to reduce noise in enclosed spaces like vehicle cabins, offices, rooms, machinery, and ducts. By addressing noise at its source, Plasmapanel creates quieter, more comfortable environments across various industries.

 

In addition to our focus on research and development, Sonexos offers strategic counsel to help clients innovate in audio and sound. Our advisory services include product development, benchmarking, and manufacturing support, ensuring clients successfully implement advanced technologies and strengthen their market position.

By delivering cutting-edge sound solutions and expert guidance, Sonexos enables businesses to thrive in a competitive landscape. Where sound enhances experience, Sonexos delivers.