NIST piezoelectric transducer aids materials science

17 Jun 2002

An inexpensive acoustic wave transducer developed by NIST mechanical engineers soon may make it easier for researchers to decide if new composite materials or film coatings have the right mechanical properties for specific applications.

The NIST instrument uses a curved transducer made with an inexpensive piezoelectric, plastic film. Electrical signals cause the film to emit relatively low frequency, pulsed sound waves. The transducer sends a pulsed sound wave through a test sample that is submerged in water. The speed of the reflected wave provides a measure of the material's elasticity (its ability to flex under stress), while the direction of the reflected wave provides details about crystal planes or defects within the material.