Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 2, 2026

Fabrication, Operation and Flow Visualization in Surface-acoustic-wave-driven Acoustic-counterflow Microfluidics
Published on: August 27, 2013
Crack Front Interaction with Self-Emitted Acoustic Waves
Abstract:
The interaction of a propagating crack in implanted silicon with self-emitted acoustic waves results in periodic patterns on fractured surfaces. Direct measurement of the acoustic emission ahead of the fracture front shows the emergence of dominant acoustic frequency related to the crack velocity. It is shown that the surface modifications are made of roughness modulations due to periodic deviations of the crack front. A physical mechanism explaining the pattern formation is proposed, well in agreement with the observed pattern wavelengths.
Related Concept Videos
The Wave Nature of Light
Types of Non-structural Cracks in Concrete
Plastic shrinkage cracks typically form within hours after the concrete is poured. The concrete's surface dries faster than the bottom, creating tensile stress that the still-plastic concrete cannot withstand, leading to diagonal or randomly patterned cracks on the concrete surface.
Wave Parameters
Reflection of Waves
Half wave rectifier
Full wave rectifier

