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Nonlinear ultrasonic propagation in bubbly liquids: a numerical model
Christian Vanhille1, Cleofé Campos-Pozuelo
1E.S.C.E.T., Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Móstoles, Madrid, Spain. christian.vanhille@urjc.es
This study introduces a new numerical method to analyze ultrasonic wave propagation in bubbly liquids. It reveals how bubble presence affects wave speed, attenuation, and nonlinear effects, crucial for understanding acoustic phenomena in diverse applications.
Area of Science:
- Acoustics
- Fluid Dynamics
- Nonlinear Wave Phenomena
Background:
- Ultrasonic wave propagation in bubbly liquids is complex due to bubble-induced effects.
- Existing models often simplify or neglect the coupled acoustic field-bubble vibration system.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and apply a novel numerical algorithm for analyzing ultrasonic propagation in bubbly liquids.
- To investigate the nonlinear acoustic characteristics arising from bubble presence.
- To explore the influence of bubble resonance frequency on nonlinear wave behavior.
Main Methods:
- A second-order equation for bubble vibration is coupled with the linear nondissipative wave equation.
- Numerical simulations are performed for plane harmonic waves and plane pulses in air-bubble/water mixtures.
- Analysis includes wave speed, attenuation, harmonic distortion, nonlinearity parameter, and frequency changes.
Main Results:
- A direct relationship between second-harmonic progression and bubble density was identified.
- Nonlinear attenuation, frequency shifts, and self-demodulation effects were observed for pulsed signals.
- The study quantifies changes in acoustic properties with distance and bubble concentration.
Conclusions:
- The presence of bubbles significantly alters ultrasonic wave characteristics, introducing nonlinear effects.
- A new numerical approach accurately models these complex interactions.
- Findings provide insights into nonlinear acoustics in bubbly media and their potential applications, including biological ones.
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