Wind farm infrasound detectability and its effects on the perception of wind farm noise amplitude modulation

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

Some residents attribute adverse effects to the presence of wind farm (WF) infrasound. However, dominant features of windfarm noise such as infrasound, tonality and amplitude modulation span the average human hearing threshold, so attribution to infrasound is problematic. This study used a combination of pre-recorded noise stimuli, measured at 3.2 km from a wind farm, in laboratory-based listening tests to investigate human perception of infrasound and amplitude modulation at realistic sound pressure levels in a group of 14 participants. Although a small sample size warrants cautious interpretation, preliminary results suggest differential effects between self-reported non-sensitive versus noise-sensitive participants, where the latter detected infrasound above chance. Infrasound did not affect the perception of amplitude modulation. Larger studies remain needed to clarify these findings.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationAcoustics 2019, Sound Decisions
Subtitle of host publicationMoving Forward with Acoustics - Proceedings of the Annual Conference of the Australian Acoustical Society
EditorsMarc Buret, Andrew Mitchell
PublisherAustralian Acoustical Society
Number of pages8
ISBN (Electronic)9780909882099
Publication statusPublished - 10 Nov 2019
EventAustralian Acoustical Society Annual Conference, Acoustics 2019 - Sound Decisions: Moving Forward with Acoustics - Cape Schanck, Australia
Duration: 10 Nov 201913 Nov 2019

Publication series

NameAcoustics 2019, Sound Decisions: Moving Forward with Acoustics - Proceedings of the Annual Conference of the Australian Acoustical Society

Conference

ConferenceAustralian Acoustical Society Annual Conference, Acoustics 2019 - Sound Decisions: Moving Forward with Acoustics
Country/TerritoryAustralia
CityCape Schanck
Period10/11/1913/11/19

Keywords

  • Wind farms
  • Noise
  • Amplitude modulation
  • Infrasound detectability

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