Evaluation of layered composites by laser optoacoustic transducers

An ultrasonic method for evaluation of composite structures by laser-excited wide-band acoustic pulses is proposed. Two types of laser optoacoustic transducers, in transmission and reflection modes, are used in the spectral range of 0.1–10 MHz. In the first case, the frequency dependence of the attenuation factor of ultrasound is measured. In the reflection mode, the optoacoustic transducer allows us to obtain the time-dependent shape and spectrum of the backscattered acoustic signal with one-sided access to a specimen or product. Specimens of a layered graphite-epoxy composite of different porosity (up to 1.2%) are studied. In the frequency range of 1–5 MHz, the attenuation factor of ultrasound measured in the transmission mode is the greater the higher the porosity of the specimen. The “noise” part of the backscattered acoustic pulse is found to increase with increasing porosity of the specimens. A 1% growth in porosity causes a threefold increase in the noise power. The results obtained confirm the advantages of the laser optoacoustic method for evaluation of composite materials and products during their manufacturing and operation.