Non-Contact Characterization of Plates Using a Turbulent Air-Jet Source and an Ultrasound Microphone
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: We report on the non-contact characterization of various plate materials (including aluminum and steel) using a high-pressure, micrometer-scale air jet as a broadband ultrasound source and an optomechanical microphone as a receiver. Through-plate transmission spectra are dominated by zero-group-velocity (ZGV) Lamb modes. We attribute this to the ‘point-like’ nature of both the source and receiver, since ZGV modes are spatially localized and comprise a range of non-normal wave numbers. As is well known, the properties of the ZGV modes, including their frequency and amplitude, are sensitive to thickness variations or the presence of defects. The continuous nature and high acoustic power of the gas jet source enabled us to perform uninterrupted scanning of non-uniform steel plates. Given the ubiquitous and low-cost nature of compressed air systems, our approach might be of interest for the rapid inspection of industrial parts.
Source: NDT
DOI: 10.3390/ndt4010007
Institution: University of Alberta
Language: English
Subfield: Mechanics of Materials
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,207
OpenAlex ID: W7126375598