Mass Loaded Vinyl Barrier (MLV) for Soundproofing

Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV), also known as Mass Loaded Barrier, is a polymer-based, bitumen-free, high-density synthetic membrane engineered for superior soundproofing performance. Its unique combination of viscoelasticity and high density delivers exceptional sound insulation across a wide range of construction elements without adding significant thickness. Manufactured under the trusted TECSOUND brand, MLV barriers are the preferred choice for architects, engineers, and contractors seeking reliable noise reduction in both new construction and renovation projects.

What is Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV)?

Mass Loaded Vinyl is a thin, flexible, and extremely dense acoustic membrane designed to block airborne sound transmission through walls, ceilings, floors, and partitions. Unlike traditional soundproofing materials that rely on thickness to reduce noise, MLV uses its high mass per unit area to create an effective sound barrier in a compact profile. TECSOUND MLV is available in multiple weight classes to suit different acoustic requirements, from residential noise control to heavy industrial applications.

Key Features & Benefits

TECSOUND Mass Loaded Barriers deliver outstanding performance across several critical parameters. The material is completely bitumen-free, making it safe for indoor environments and compliant with modern health and safety standards. Its high density of approximately 2,010 kg/m³ provides maximum sound blocking capability in minimal thickness. The material maintains excellent flexibility with elongation exceeding 500%, allowing easy installation around curves, corners, and irregular surfaces. It performs reliably across a wide temperature range from -25°C to 70°C, and carries a B-s2,d0 fire classification for enhanced safety in commercial applications.

Technical Specifications

Material Type: Polymer-based, bitumen-free synthetic membrane

Brand: TECSOUND

Density: 2,010 kg/m³

Tensile Strength: >30 N/50mm (NT-67)

Elongation: >500% (NT-67)

Pliability: -25°C (EN 1109)

Application Temperature: 5°C to 35°C

Static Service Temperature: -10°C to 70°C

Resistance to Tearing: 153-235 N/50mm (EN 12310-1)

Fire Classification: B-s2,d0 (UNE-EN 13501-1)

Sound Insulation Performance (Weighted Sound Reduction Index Rw):

TECSOUND 35: 23 dB

TECSOUND 50: 25 dB (EN ISO 10140-2)

TECSOUND 70: 28 dB (EN ISO 140-3)

TECSOUND 100: 32 dB (EN ISO 10140-2)

Applications & Use Cases

Mass Loaded Vinyl barriers are versatile soundproofing solutions suitable for a wide variety of applications. In residential construction, they are used between party walls and floors to meet building code sound transmission class (STC) requirements. In commercial buildings, MLV is applied in office partitions, conference rooms, and hotel room separations to ensure speech privacy. Industrial facilities use heavier grades for machinery enclosures and pipe lagging. The material is also widely specified for recording studios, home theaters, hospitals, schools, and any space where noise control is critical. TECSOUND can be installed on walls, ceilings, floors, doors, ductwork, and pipe wrapping to provide a complete soundproofing envelope.

Why Choose Yamamah Smart for Mass Loaded Barriers?

Yamamah Smart is an authorized distributor of TECSOUND products in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East. We provide genuine, factory-certified Mass Loaded Vinyl barriers backed by full technical documentation and acoustic testing reports. Our acoustic engineering team offers professional consultation to help you select the correct TECSOUND grade for your project, calculate required STC improvements, and design optimal installation configurations. From residential apartments to large-scale commercial developments, we deliver proven soundproofing solutions tailored to the specific requirements of the Saudi construction market.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between TECSOUND 35, 50, 70, and 100?

The numbers refer to the mass per square meter in kg. TECSOUND 35 weighs 3.5 kg/m² and provides 23 dB sound reduction, while TECSOUND 100 weighs 10 kg/m² and delivers 32 dB reduction. Heavier grades offer greater sound insulation but require stronger mounting support. Our team can help you select the right grade based on your acoustic requirements and structural constraints.

Is Mass Loaded Vinyl safe for indoor use?

Yes, TECSOUND Mass Loaded Vinyl is completely bitumen-free and manufactured from non-toxic polymers. It is safe for use in all indoor environments including homes, schools, hospitals, and food processing facilities. The material does not emit harmful gases or odors once installed.

How is Mass Loaded Barrier installed?

TECSOUND MLV is installed by adhering or mechanically fixing the membrane to the surface being treated. It can be applied directly to walls, floors, ceilings, or sandwiched between layers of drywall or plywood. The flexible nature of the material allows it to be wrapped around pipes, ducts, and irregular shapes. All seams should be overlapped and sealed with acoustic sealant to prevent sound leaks.

Can MLV be used with other acoustic materials?

Absolutely. For maximum soundproofing performance, Mass Loaded Vinyl is often combined with acoustic insulation batts (such as mineral wool or fiberglass) and resilient mounting channels. This multi-layer approach targets both airborne and impact sound transmission, significantly improving overall STC and IIC ratings compared to using any single material alone.