Swedish invention promises quieter homes with noise-absorbing screws

The sounds coming from neighboring apartments, passing cars, or lawnmowers are disturbances that prevent many of us from getting a peaceful sleep. A recent invention from Sweden, based on a unique use of a spring, promises to end these problems. This breakthrough could revolutionize the construction industry.

Håkan Wernersson, from the Department of Materials Science and Applied Mathematics at Malmo University, along with his team, has developed a special screw that neutralizes noise. This innovation has the potential to significantly change construction practices, reducing incoming sound levels by half and addressing issues related to inadequate acoustic insulation. Laboratory tests have demonstrated that this invention can reduce noise by 9 decibels, effectively cutting the perceived sound in half compared to standard screws.

This type of screw is recommended for mounting drywall panels to walls. By using these screws, an additional insulating layer is no longer necessary, allowing for space savings in the room by reducing the thickness of materials used. This solution is particularly beneficial for those living in tiny houses or apartments.

Furthermore, these sound-absorbing screws from Sweden enable the attachment of drywall panels to wooden elements on the wall. The springs embedded in the screws ensure that sound waves, transmitted through walls and wooden posts, are diffused, so noise is not heard in the room.

The business model for this invention includes licensing the rights to produce and sell the screws to companies. Wernersson and his collaborator, Raimo Issalem, seek more companies willing to test the product on a larger scale. Conducting additional pilot projects will help verify the screws' performance in everyday use and identify areas for improvement.