FEM Modeling Strategies: Application to Mechanical and Dielectric Sensitivities of Love Wave Devices in Liquid Medium

Abstract

This paper presents an extended work on the Finite Element Method (FEM) simulation of Love Wave (LW) sensors in a liquid medium. Two models are proposed to simulate the multiphysical response of the sensor. Both are extensively described in terms of principle, composition and behavior, making their applications easily reproducible by the sensor community. The first model is a Representative Volume Element (RVE) simulating the transducer and the second focuses on the sensor’s longitudinal (OXZ) cut which simulates the multiphysical responses of the device. Sensitivity of the LW device to variations in the rheological and dielectric properties of liquids is estimated and then compared to a large set of measurements issued from LW sensors presenting different technological characteristics. This integral approach allows for a deeper insight into the multiphysical behavior of the LW sensor. This article also explores the advantages and drawbacks of each model. Both are in good accordance with the measurements and could be used for various applications, for which a non-exhaustive list is proposed in the conclusion.

Keywords

• finite element modeling
• surface acoustic wave biosensor
• Love Waves
• COMSOL