A versatile scanning acoustic platform

TL;DR

This paper introduces a highly adaptable scanning acoustic platform capable of high-resolution imaging and acousto-optic integration, suitable for diverse material analysis applications.

Contribution

It presents a novel versatile platform combining high frequency acoustic probing with configurable optical capabilities for broad scientific use.

Findings

Achieved 25-micron lateral resolution in acoustic imaging.

Demonstrated the platform's adaptability as an acoustic microscope.

Outlined construction, calibration, and potential applications.

Abstract

We present a versatile and highly configurable scanning acoustic platform. This platform, comprising of a high frequency transducer, bespoke positioning system and temperature-regulated sample unit, enables the acoustic probing of materials over a wide range of length scales and with minimal thermal aberration. In its bare form the platform acts as a reflection-mode acoustic microscope, while optical capabilities are readily incorporated to extend its abilities to the acousto-optic domain. Here we illustrate the capabilities of the platform through its incarnation as an acoustic microscope. Operating at 55 MHz we demonstrate acoustic imaging with a lateral resolution of 25 microns. We outline its construction, calibration and capabilities as an acoustic microscope, and discuss its wider applications.