Double-layer PVDF transducer and V(z) measurement system for measuring leaky Lamb waves in a piezoelectric plate

This paper presents a new experimental measurement method for leaky Lamb waves propagating in a piezoelectric plate immersed in a conductive fluid. The measurement system is a low-frequency version of lens-less acoustic microscopy which has been developed based on a line-focus double-layer PVDF transducer. The transducer and its defocusing measurement system can perform V(z) measurements on a sample plate immersed in a fluid, and therefore can obtain the leaky Lamb wave velocities with high accuracy. An X-cut LiNbO(3) plate is investigated with this experimental measurement system to find out its fluid-loading effects, especially the conductive loading effects by water of various conductivities. Angular dependence of this conductive loading effect along different propagating directions on the X-cut LiNbO(3) plate is measured. It is found out the conductive loading effects are strongly dependent on the piezoelectric coupling factor. Theoretical calculations based on partial wave theory have also been carried out and compared with experimental data. Good agreements have been observed.