The project is concerned with research in optoacoustics, focuses on both fundamental and novel applications, and emphasizes experimental work. Three topics are covered in this activity and include optics and optoelectronics applications in acoustics, development of fiber optics devices to measure normal and tangential micro-vibrations on surfaces, and outdoor sound propagation. The first topic involves the applications of acousto-optic light modulation with Bragg cells to the laser generation of ultrasound in materials. This non-contact method of sound generation is attractive where the environment is either too hot or radioactive. The second research topic's outcome is expected to provide information on the mechanisms controlling sound radiation from fluid/structure interactions. The third topic is concerned with the modeling of sound diffraction from irregular topography. It may find applications in environmental acoustics and noise near airports.
