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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Acoustic-velocity measurements in materials using a regenerative method

Patent ·
OSTI ID:5704254

Acoustic energy is propatated through earth material between an electro-acoustic generator and a receiver which converts the received acoustic energy into electrical signals. A closed loop is formed by a variable gain amplifier system connected between the receiver and the generator. The gain of the amplifier system is increased until sustained oscillations are produced in the closed loop. The frequency of the oscillations is measured as an indication of the acoustic propagation velocity through the earth material. The amplifier gain is measured as an indication of the acoustic attenuation through the earth materials. The method is also applicable to the non-destructive testing of structural materials, such as steel, aluminum and concrete.

DOE Contract Number:
W-7405-ENG-48
Assignee:
EDB-83-179035; ERA-08-054775
Patent Number(s):
None
Application Number:
ON: DE83018037
OSTI ID:
5704254
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English