Recent developments in 1-3 piezocomposite transducer fabrication

Several advances in the fabrication of 1-3 piezocomposite transducers have recently been achieved at MSI. SonoPanel/sup TM/ transducers with different PZT formulations, varying ceramic volume fractions, and alternate polymer matrices have been developed to meet the requirements for various underwater applications. Transducers have performed well as both sensors and transmitters under hydrostatic pressures up to 6.9 MPa, have survived multiple explosive shocks, and were made to conform to nonplanar surfaces, piezocomposite smart panels, capable of both sensing and actuation for active surface control, are also being developed. The panels utilize monolithic sensor elements built into a 1-3 composite actuator panel. The sensors are net-shape formed, low profile accelerometers uniformly distributed across the panel area. Prototype smart panels have been assembled and are being evaluated.