A Scientometric Analysis on the Relevance of Sound Insulation Literature as a Knowledge Base in Noise Control

¹ Doctoral Program of Environmental Science, School of Postgraduate Studies, Diponegoro University, Jl. Imam Bardjo, SH No.3 - 5 Semarang 50241 Indonesia
² Study Program of Occupational Health and Safety, Vocational School, Sebelas Maret University, Jl. Ir. Sutami No.36A Kentingan, Surakarta, Indonesia
³ Study Program of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Diponegoro University, Jl. Prof. Soedarto, Semarang, Indonesia
⁴ Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Sebelas Maret University, Jl. Ir. Sutami No.36A, Kentingan, Indonesia
⁵ Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Jl. A. Yani Tromol Pos 1 Pabelan Kartasura, Surakarta 57102, Indonesia

^* Corresponding author: tu29hiperkes@staff.uns.ac.id

Abstract

This study conducts a detailed scientometric and narrative review of global research on sound insulation published from 2015 to 2024, based on 1,540 Scopus-indexed journal articles analyzed using Biblioshiny and VOSviewer. The results show an average annual publication growth rate of 13.94%, with major contributions from the fields of engineering, materials science, physics, and environmental science. Keyword cooccurrence and cluster analyses demonstrate a thematic transition from traditional construction acoustics to advanced solutions, including metamaterials, sustainable composites, and bio-based materials. Although recent developments have introduced sophisticated materials and modelling techniques, natural fibers and recycled resources remain insufficiently investigated. The review highlights the critical role of physical indicators such as the Sound Absorption Coefficient (SAC), Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC), and Sound Transmission Loss (TL) in assessing acoustic performance. Future research is directed toward integrating sustainable materials, optimizing structural design, and implementing standardized testing protocols in collaboration with industry stakeholders. This review outlines a strategic foundation for developing effective, environmentally responsible, and practically applicable noise control technologies.