Traffic Noise at Urban Road Intersections: A Comprehensive Review of Mechanisms, Models and Mitigation Strategies

Intersections, areas where urban traffic noise pollution was relatively severe, have a significant impact on people’s living environment and health. This paper systematically reviews the research progress on traffic noise at road intersections both in China and abroad, summarizing it mainly from three aspects: noise source analysis, prediction and evaluation methods and noise control and reduction technologies. Research found that noise levels near road intersections were generally high, and the acoustic environment was relatively complex, which was caused by the specific traffic behaviors of vehicles within intersections. To more accurately evaluate the noise levels at road intersections, field measurements and analyses of intersection noise were carried out through a reasonable arrangement of measurement points and the selection of appropriate evaluation indicators. To better predict and manage noise levels at intersections, noise prediction models were often employed. Most traditional noise prediction models had been localized and adjusted by researchers so that they could be used to simulate intersection environments. To more accurately simulate intersection noise, many researchers developed noise prediction models specifically designed for intersections, providing more model references for scholars studying intersection noise. To effectively manage and reduce noise at intersections, this paper summarizes the measures previously adopted by researchers, mainly including optimizing intersection structures, adjusting traffic management methods and implementing corresponding engineering measures. For future research, attention should be focused on the acoustic characteristics of new energy vehicles at intersections or on the multi-objective optimization of intersection design in order to promote the improvement of urban acoustic environment quality.