Finite Element Modeling of Ultrasonic Transducers for Polymer Characterization
S. De Paolis[1], F. Lionetto[1], and A. Maffezzoli[1][1]Department of Innovation Engineering, University of Salento, Lecce, Italy
Finite element analysis has been used to model the ultrasonic wave propagation both in a custom made transducer and in the tested polymer sample. The model consists of acoustic (passive elements) and electroacoustic (active elements) transmission lines. The simulation of the acoustic propagation accounts for the interaction between the transducer and the materials in the buffer rods, and the coupling between the electric and mechanical properties of the piezoelectric material. The simulation results of longitudinal ultrasonic waves propagation in liquid and solid epoxy resin are presented. They have been validated by comparison with the experimental data.
