Evaluation of surface corrosion damage in thin plates by Zero-Group Velocity Lamb waves based on PVDF comb transducers

Abstract

This paper introduces a novel method for assessing surface corrosion damage in thin plates by leveraging the high sensitivity of Zero-Group Velocity (ZGV) Lamb waves and the versatility of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) comb transducers. Theoretical analyses of ZGV Lamb wave modes and their differentiation from thickness vibration modes were conducted. The functionality and utility of the PVDF comb transducer tailored for the specific S1-ZGV mode were assessed. Experimental findings demonstrate that the PVDF comb transducer efficiently excites and captures the S1-ZGV mode, enabling effective assessment of surface corrosion damage in thin aluminum plates. Compared to the variations in wave velocity of surface acoustic waves (SAW) and the S1-ZGV frequency, the spectral amplitude at the initial S1-ZGV frequency exhibits a monotonically decreasing trend with increasing corrosion levels, proving to be more sensitive and reliable for evaluating surface corrosion damage. This research offers theoretical underpinnings and experimental validation for damage assessment using ZGV Lamb waves with the PVDF comb transducer, showcasing significant potential for practical engineering applications.