Development of a PVDF membrane hydrophone for use in air-coupled ultrasonic transducer calibration

This work describes the use of a polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membrane hydrophone for application in air-coupled transducer calibration. A one-dimensional theoretical analysis is used to demonstrate the potential and performance of PVDF as a hydrophone material over the frequency range 100 kHz to 5 MHz included in the evaluation is the influence of deposited metallic electrode layers on the sensitivity of the material. Experimental validation over the restricted range 400 kHz to 1 MHz is provided by a coplanar 0.028 mm thick membrane hydrophone in conjunction with a custom built 1-3 piezocomposite transmitter. Calibration of the membrane hydrophone is performed by employing a standard hydrophone that has been calibrated to a primary standard in a water medium. Justification for such an approach is presented within the theoretical analysis which provides a close correlation with experimental data. The generation of Lamb waves at critical angles in the PVDF and their subsequent influence on the directional response of membrane hydrophones operating in air is also addressed. A method for partial suppression of the Lamb waves, based around perforation of the membrane (either in whole or in part), is evaluated experimentally with reasonable results.