Self-sensing ultrasound transducer for cavitation detection

Cavitation monitoring is desired to optimize the sonication for diverse sonochemical processes and to detect changes or malfunctions during operation. In situ cavitation measurements can be carried out by detection of the acoustic emissions of cavitation bubbles by sensors in the liquid. However, in harsh environments sensors might not be applicable. Thus, the impact of cavitation on the electrical signals of a piezoelectric transducer has been analyzed as alternative method to measure the threshold, strength and type of cavitation. The applicability has been tested in three different setups to evaluate the generalizability of extracted indicators. In all setups indicators for the cavitation thresholds could be derived from the current signal. In two setups features showed two thresholds that may be linked to the types of cavitation. However, only one feature derived from the current signal in one particular setup correlated to the strength of cavitation. Cavitation detection based on the current signal of the transducer is a useful method to detect cavitation in harsh environments and without perturbing the sound field. Once applicable indicators have been identified, they may easily be tracked during the process. However, for more detailed studies about the cavitation activity and its spatial distribution, measurements with in situ sensors are recommended.