The Australian project is targeting new buildings and retro-fitting

A polycarbonate brick, which could be used to naturally ventilate buildings while keeping outside noise to a minimum, will go on sale in February 2005.

Silenceair, originally designed as part of Dr Chris Field’s PhD research at Sydney University, has been developed and refined over the past eight years to the point of commercial production. It uses patented technology to allow fresh air into buildings while leaving up to 85% of the noise outside. The brick offers an alternative to air conditioning and can also be used to keep conversations private.

Dr Field told PRW.com that the brick would be sold through commercial partner Silenceair International. He said: “We are looking at 30,000 units per month for new buildings – office and residential – once the product is established in the market place. The product is also suitable for retro-fitting.”

The commercial version of Silenceair will be manufactured from impact resistant polycarbonate, which will allow it to be manufactured in various colours and be used for daylighting purposes in buildings.