Strong localization of an acoustic wave in a sub-wavelength slot between two plates

The dispersion relation of the acoustic field in a sub-wavelength slot (its width is smaller than the acoustic wavelength) between two identical plates immersed in an inviscid liquid is theoretically analyzed. Each plate has a phononic crystal structure consisting of periodical grooves drilled in one of outer sides of each plate. It is found that highly localization of acoustic energy can be achieved in the sub-wavelength slot when a traveling acoustic wave is incident upon the slots. The associate physical principle is as follows: The lowest anti-symmetric non-leaky A0 mode of the Lamb wave of each individual thin plate propagating as an evanescent wave extends to the liquid from opposite direction; when the width of the slot is much smaller than the characteristic decay length of the evanescent wave in the liquid, the constructive interference of evanescent waves of the both plates takes place, leading to a strong acoustic field in the slot. This system has potential to serve as an excellent candidate for the ultrasensitive microscopic chemical/biological stimulators and sensors.