Flat-plate underwater carbon nanotube low-frequency transducer

Abstract

This paper presents a novel, lightweight, low-frequency transducer based on the thermoacoustic effect, specifically tailored for underwater applications. The design leverages the simplicity of the thermoacoustic effect, which is particularly effective in the low-frequency range, to develop a flat-plate carbon nanotube transducer. A three-dimensional model incorporating electric–thermal–acoustic coupling is proposed to investigate the primary factors that influence the transducer's acoustic performance, using the finite element method as the analytical framework. To validate the model, a prototype was constructed, and its acoustic performance was evaluated. The results revealed a maximum output of 118.7 dB at a distance of 15 cm at 620 Hz and a minimum of 95.6 dB within the 490–770 Hz frequency range, achieved under current intensities ranging from 1 to 2.5 A. This study aims to establish and validate a three-dimensional simulation model, grounded in the thermoacoustic effect and finite element methodology, to optimize the performance of carbon nanotube transducers in underwater environments. The finite element simulation focused on assessing the transducer's behavior under constrained low-frequency conditions. The optimization process guided the design of the transducer, which was then subjected to rigorous testing. The results demonstrated several key advantages, including a low operating frequency, a compact and lightweight design, and straightforward installation. These characteristics make the transducer particularly well-suited for deployment on small underwater platforms, enhancing its versatility and practical application in underwater systems.