A finite element modelling approach into the influence of mechanical matching and damping in 1-3 piezocomposites

This paper presents an investigation into the performance of 1-3 piezocomposite transducers in both air and water media. The modelling strategy involves finite element analysis to predict piezocomposite behaviour when a matching layer or backing block is introduced and the results compared to those obtained using a constrained-dimensional linear systems model. The finite element model is also utilised to interpret various resonances present in the matched or damped piezocomposite and to determine their influence on the overall transducer performance. Interesting results are demonstrated by using a backing block and a strongly-coupled lateral mode close to the fundamental thickness resonance to increase the bandwidth of a piezocomposite reception device, while maintaining reasonable sensitivity