Spanish scientists have announced what they call ‘acoustic cloak’. These cloaks do not allow sound waves to pass through and hence, anything that is covered with the cloak would become sound-proof. According to scientists at the Imperial College, London, the cloaking technology has been around for many years but had been difficult to materialize. Earlier studies have shown that objects could be covered with materials that make them ‘invisible’ microwaves and radio waves. However, it is still not probable to estimate when it could be possible to make an object ‘invisible’ to normal vision, which uses light rays.
The research in question has been the work of a Spanish team, who believes the key to a practical device, are the so-called ‘sonic crystals’. These ‘meta materials’ can be engineered to produce desired acoustic effects. If you are thinking of shielding your home from the noisy neighbors, well, this could be the answer. The military, concert halls and hospitals could also benefit from this technology. As the concept is not an unrealistic one, scientists are discussing the possibilities of manufacturing these ‘acoustic cloaks’
Via: BBC
