Attenuation
Attenuation refers to a reduction in force, effect, or value. Attenuation may be achieved by an attenuator.
The SuDS Manual published by CIRIA in 2015 defines attenuation as: ‘Reduction of peak flow rate and increased duration of a flow event.’ It defines attenuation storage as: ‘Volume in which runoff is stored when the inflow to the storage is greater than the controlled outflow.’
Culvert, screen and outfall manual, (CIRIA C786) published by CIRIA in 2019, defines attenuation as the: ‘Reduction in the peak discharge of a flood as it passes down river due to storage or constrictions.’
The term ‘attenuation’ is also used in the construction industry to refer to the reduction of the transmission of sound, typically in ductwork, doors or other elements that pass from one area to another. It can also refer to wave attenuators, pressure attenuators in ventilation piping and so on.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
C20 Society; Buildings at Risk List 2025
10 more buildings published with updates on the past decade of buildings featured.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme and certifications consultation
Summary of government consultation, closing 11 June 2025.
Deputy editor of AT, Tim Fraser, discusses the newly formed society with its current chair, Chris Halligan MCIAT.
Barratt Lo-E passivhaus standard homes planned enmasse
With an initial 728 Lo-E homes across two sites and many more planned for the future.
Government urged to uphold Warm Homes commitment
ECA and industry bodies write to Government concerning its 13.2 billion Warm Homes manifesto commitment.
From project managers to rising stars, sustainability pioneers and more.
Places of Worship in Britain and Ireland, 1929-1990. Book review.
The emancipation of women in art.
Call for independent National Grenfell oversight mechanism
MHCLG share findings of Building Safety Inquiry in letter to Secretary of State and Minister for Building Safety.
The Architectural Technology Awards
AT Awards now open for this the sixth decade of CIAT.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson awards
Deadline for submissions Friday 30 May 2025.
The benefits of precast, off-site foundation systems
Top ten benefits of this notable innovation.
Encouraging individuals to take action saving water at home, work, and in their communities.
Takes a community to support mental health and wellbeing
The why of becoming a Mental Health Instructor explained.
Mental health awareness week 13-18 May
The theme is communities, they can provide a sense of belonging, safety, support in hard times, and a sense purpose.
Mental health support on the rise but workers still struggling
CIOB Understanding Mental Health in the Built Environment 2025 shows.
Design and construction material libraries
Material, sample, product or detail libraries a key component of any architectural design practice.