Sonothermography in composite materials: Finite Element modeling and experimental validation

Measurements of the temperature field induced in viscoelastic composite materials by the loss of ultrasonic fields and its comparison with a Finite Elements model are presented. The FE model computes the acoustic field and the loss of energy. The heat equation is solved with this loss as a source of heating. For experimental comparison, the plate is cut out in rods oriented in various directions and excited with a piezoelectric actuator. Model results are compared to the image produced by an infrared camera. Some features appear due to the material anisotropy that correspond to the orientation of the fibers.

► Temperature fields due to ultrasonic loss in viscoelastic composites are measured. ► A Finite Element model predicting the temperature field is developed. ► Numerical predictions and experimental data from an infrared camera are compared.