Optical multilayer detection array for fast ultrasonic field mapping

Area of Science:

• Optoelectronics
• Acoustics
• Materials Science

Background:

• Ultrasonic measurements are crucial in various scientific and industrial fields.
• Existing hydrophone technologies face limitations such as acoustic resonances and diffraction phenomena.
• There is a need for high-resolution, sensitive, and durable ultrasonic probes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a new optical multilayer detection array for ultrasonic measurements.
• To demonstrate the principle of operation and application of the developed probe.
• To highlight the advantages of the optical probe over conventional hydrophones.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a dielectric interference filter structure evaporated onto a glass plate.
• Utilizing the deformation of the layer system by incident acoustic pressure.
• Measuring the induced modulation of optical reflectance using a simple optical detection scheme.
• Demonstrating the measurement principle via a line scan through a broadband transducer focus.

Main Results:

• The optical multilayer detection array successfully detects ultrasonic pressure signals.
• The induced modulation of optical reflectance accurately reflects acoustic pressure.
• The system demonstrated capability for rapid two-dimensional characterization of ultrasonic fields.
• The probe exhibits high temporal and spatial resolution, sensitivity, and durability.

Conclusions:

• The presented optical multilayer detection array is a viable tool for ultrasonic measurements.
• This technology overcomes limitations of conventional hydrophones by avoiding acoustic resonances and diffraction.
• The probe enables high-performance, non-invasive characterization of ultrasonic fields.