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Guided Acoustic Waves in Polymer Rods with Varying Immersion Depth in Liquid
Klaus Lutter1, Alexander Backer1, Klaus Stefan Drese1
1Institute for Sensor and Actuator Technology, Coburg University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Am Hofbräuhaus 1B, 96450 Coburg, Germany.
Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)
|December 23, 2023
Summary
This study introduces a novel guided acoustic wave sensor for measuring liquid immersion depth. The polyethylene-based sensor accurately detects depth in corrosive liquids by measuring acoustic velocity changes.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Acoustic Sensing
- Instrumentation
Background:
- Traditional immersion depth sensors face limitations with corrosive media.
- Pressure and airborne ultrasonic sensors struggle with media differentiation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel guided acoustic wave sensor for accurate immersion depth measurement.
- To overcome limitations of existing sensors in corrosive environments.
Main Methods:
- A polyethylene rod sensor utilizing piezoceramics was fabricated.
- Low-frequency sine bursts excited the L(0,1) acoustic mode.
- Time shifts of reflected acoustic wave zero crossings measured immersion depth.
Main Results:
- A monotonic relationship was established between time shifts and immersion depth.
- The sensor demonstrated reliable performance across various liquid types.
- Acoustic velocity changes correlated directly with immersion levels.
Conclusions:
- The developed guided acoustic wave sensor offers a robust solution for immersion depth monitoring.
- This technology is suitable for diverse and corrosive liquid applications.
- The sensor provides a reliable, relative measurement method for industrial and infrastructure needs.
