“Though less publicized than its notorious air and water counterparts, noise pollution is a growing problem,” [Geek.com]. Prof. Xin Zhang and her team at Boston University “have recently made a remarkable discovery,” [Bold Business]; “have created a new kind of material,” [Smithsonian]; “have come up with a solution that outperforms them all,” [Gizmodo]; and “have done the seemingly impossible,” [ASME]. Their breakthrough innovation, described as “shape blocking sound,” [Alliant], is “quite a feat of metamaterial design,” [Fabbaloo], which “could help bring peace and quiet to our lives,” [Digital Trends].

“Whether at work, in health or in transport, this soundproofing ring could change our lives,” [Business Insider], specifically by enabling the ability “to curtail noise from aircraft, fans and HVAC systems without interfering with the airflow,” [Smithsonian]. As highlighted by The Wall Street Journal, “there are all kinds of mechanical applications that would benefit from lightweight, see-through soundproofing that can stop noise, but still allow air to flow freely. And that’s what Zhang’s team did,” [The Wall Street Journal]. Prof. Zhang’s innovative “metamaterials block noise without hindering air flow,” [Design News], unlocking “endless applications for the technology in different fields,” [SolidSmack].

Described as a “ring of silence,” [Thomas Insights], and “a meta-material to end noise pollution,” [Plastics the mag], Prof. Zhang’s invention is “as cool as it sounds!” [Mashable]. “The potential uses are endless,” [Built in Boston], and “there’s really no limit to the possibilities,” [Fast Company]. Acclaimed as “the strongest sound insulation research in history!” [TechOrang], it’s no wonder “the industry is crazy!” [L’Usine nouvelle]. Experts suggest “this could be a whole new industry,” [Fabbaloo], and even predict “we may finally have a 3DPrinter popular hit,” [WIRED]. Additionally, “the structure is also very lightweight and looks beautiful,” [Mashable].

Ultimately, Prof. Zhang’s discovery “could have a significant impact on architecture and design,” [Hunker], ushering in “a new (and quiet) era of acoustics,” [Discoveries News]. Beyond engineering applications, even wellness and mindfulness industries—already worth billions—“may also benefit from these advances,” [Future Science News]. Clearly, “the future is coming, and it’s just the right volume,” [Curiosity].