Symmetric Reflector Ultrasonic Transducer Modeling and Characterization: Role of the Matching Layer on Electroacoustic Performance

Symmetric reflector ultrasonic transducers (SRUTs) are a new type of ultrasonic transducer that take advantage of the ultrasonic wave emitted on the rear face of the active element. In this work, the electroacoustic modeling and characterization of such a structure is reported. Using the well-known Krimholtz, Leedom, et Matthaei (KLM) model, the electroacoustic response of a SRUT based on a piezoelectric ceramic with one matching layer is calculated. Simulations show that the optimal acoustic impedance of the matching layer should be lower than for conventional transducers, leading to a relative bandwidth of approximately 50%. The characterization of such a transducer based on a piezoceramic plate has been carried out. Bandwidth and sensitivity are reported. They are found to be close to the simulation results and demonstrate that these new types of transducers need to be designed according to new rules compared to conventional ones.