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Finite amplitude method for measuring the nonlinearity parameter BA in small-volume samples using focused ultrasound
1School of Marine Science and Technology, Tokai University, 3-20-1 Orido, Shimizu-ku, Shizuoka 424-8610, Japan. ssaito@scc.u-tokai.ac.jp
The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America
|January 12, 2010
Summary
This study presents a novel method to measure the acoustic nonlinearity parameter (BA) in small liquid volumes. The technique accurately determines BA using finite amplitude and comparative methods with a focused Gaussian beam.
Area of Science:
- Acoustics
- Nonlinear Acoustics
- Materials Science
Background:
- Acoustic nonlinearity parameter (BA) is crucial for characterizing materials.
- Measuring BA in small liquid volumes (<0.1 ml) presents significant challenges.
- Existing methods often require larger sample sizes or specialized equipment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a precise method for measuring the acoustic nonlinearity parameter (BA) in small liquid samples.
- To accurately determine linear acoustic properties (sound speed, attenuation) and density.
- To compensate for velocity dispersion effects in second harmonic generation measurements.
Main Methods:
- Utilized finite amplitude and comparative methods with an 18.6-MHz focused Gaussian beam.
- Employed a small sample cell (1 mm gap) between a polystyrene plate and tungsten reflector.
- Measured sound speed via time-of-flight, attenuation via insertion loss, and density via reflection coefficient.
- Incorporated dual-frequency sound to measure the relative phase of the second harmonic, correcting for velocity dispersion.
Main Results:
- Successfully measured the acoustic nonlinearity parameter (BA) for small liquid volumes (as low as 0.1 ml).
- Accurately determined sound speed, attenuation coefficient, and density.
- Validated the measurement technique using nondispersive liquids and weakly dispersive biological samples with known BA values.
Conclusions:
- The developed method offers a reliable approach for BA measurement in micro-scale liquid samples.
- This technique is suitable for characterizing both simple liquids and complex biological media.
- The findings contribute to advancements in acoustic material characterization and non-destructive testing.
