A numerical model for nonlinear and attenuative propagation and reflection of an ultrasonic bounded beam

Based on a numerical solution to the Burger’s equation, a computational model is developed to describe the propagation of an initially sinusoidal ultrasonic bounded beam. The propagation algorithm fully describes the combined effects of nonlinearity and attenuation mechanisms, which are responsible for the predicted growth and depletion of higher harmonics in a liquid medium. The model also incorporates reflection of the bounded beam from a solid plate immersed in the liquid and continues the propagation description after reflection. The important features of the computer model are presented and representative results are given for a 2.98-MHz, 2.0-cm-diam beam.