Acoustic properties of particle/polymer composites for transducer backing applications

The acoustic impedance and attenuation in particle-polymer composites for transducer-backing applications is examined. The acoustic impedance of composites was modeled and an experimental matrix identifying variables that contribute to composite attenuation was established. The variables are the type, particle size, and volume fraction of filler, the physical characteristics of the polymer matrix, and the processing route. The results from the acoustical properties and microstructural analysis of the composites indicate that the various types of filler, the polymer matrix, and the interface between the two contribute to attenuation.< >