Roadway soundwall and sound-reducing modules used therein

Abstract

A soundwall and components are described that incorporate a significant amount of plastic materials while still retaining the strength, durability and resiliency necessary for the soundwall to resist wind loads and weathering. An exemplary soundwall is described that is composed of prefabricated sound reducing modules anchored by support posts which are themselves constructed from a significant amount of plastics. The modules used in this exemplary wall are formed from an internal support frame which, in a preferred embodiment, is constructed from reinforced plastic lumber members. The support frame is covered by an outer sheath which, in alternative described embodiments, may be formed from reinforced plastic sheets or plastic lumber members. Methods are also described for fabricating the individual modules, support frame and support members as well as the soundwall itself. Soundwalls constructed in accordance with the present invention result in an unexpectedly great reduction in sound. The high plastic content of the soundwalls and their components permits greater amounts of recycled plastics rather than other materials to be used, thus providing environmental benefits as well.