Simultaneous determination of acoustic velocity and density of a cortical bone slab: ultrasonic model-based approach

An ultrasonic setup coupled to a 1-D mathematical model of wave propagation is used to determine the material properties of elastic solids. A maximum likelihood fit of the acoustic response with the model response in the frequency domain enables the simultaneous determination of acoustic velocity, mass density, damping, and sample thickness. The method, previously tested with homogeneous materials, has been applied to compact bone despite the fact that it is a highly attenuating material.