Prospects on application of elastic metamaterials in acoustic emission sensing

Abstract

This paper discusses challenges, limitations and problems arising in currently employed acoustic emission testing systems, sensors and signal processing algorithms. Main factors influencing and compromising accuracy and reliability of the classically used methods are briefly analyzed. Next, metamaterials and their dynamic properties are outlined with the aim and focus on their potential in manipulating energy flow. Several applications of metamaterials in acoustic emission are presented that indicate their potential in acoustic emission. Finally, possibilities of designing a new type of sensor for acoustic emission using metamaterials is discussed. As a consequence, it is expected to increase sensitivity and accuracy of source localization with smaller number of sensors used during measurements.