What happens to the sound reduction of glass as glass thickness increases for air-tight construction?

As the thickness of the glass increases in air-tight construction, the sound reduction tends to increase. This is primarily due to the physical properties of sound and its interaction with materials. Thicker glass provides a greater mass barrier to sound waves, which helps to absorb and block sound transmission.

The principles of acoustics indicate that sound waves are less able to penetrate denser materials. Since sound travels more effectively through lighter materials, the added mass from thicker glass disrupts the wave's ability to pass through, leading to improved sound insulation. This increase in thickness also reduces the vibrational amplitude of sound waves that pass through the material, enhancing overall noise reduction.

In the context of air-tight construction, the extra thickness is particularly beneficial because it allows for less air movement which can carry sound vibrations from one enclosed space to another. This combination of mass and air-tight integrity leads to substantial improvements in sound reduction, making thicker glass an optimal choice for noise-sensitive areas.