Title of Abstract: Physical modeling of acoustic resonators
Name of Mentor: Madeleine Msall
Mentor’s Organization or Department: Department of Physics and Astronomy, Bowdoin College
Research Abstract: The aim of this project is to study and find the best design of an interdigital transducer that allows the launching of a surface acoustic wave with maximum efficiency. In a piezoelectric substrate, when an electric field is applied, a stress is caused, which in turn results in a strain. An IDT sits on top of the substrate and is made up of two metallic pieces with interlocking fingers. When an ac voltage is applied on the fingers, there are electric fields between the interlocking fingers. The electric field produces a strain on the material, and a surface wave is launched.