Electroacoustic evaluations of 1-3 piezocomposite SonoPanelTM materials

摘要

An advanced configuration 1-3 piezocomposite, designated by itsnmanufacturer as SonoPanelTM, has been investigated fornpotential underwater acoustical applications. In-air electromechanicalncharacteristics and in-water acoustical properties of thenSonoPanelTM were experimentally examined. The in-airnimpedance measurement results showed the existence of parasitic modes innthe composite panel in addition to the expected thickness mode. Thisnmodal behavior is identified to be related to the piezocompositenstructure. In-water acoustical properties of the new 1-3 piezocompositenpanels were investigated as a function of temperature, hydrostaticnpressure, and frequency. The effect of underwater explosive shock on thenacoustic responses showed no detrimental effects in mechanical structurenor acoustical performance of the piezocomposite panel. Linearity withnelectrical drive level and hydrostatic pressure stability of the 1-3npiezocomposites also were established. These results suggest that thenSonoPanelTM piezocomposite material is potentially useful fornunderwater acoustical applications, particularly in applications innwhich large area coverage is desired