Shape Optimization of an Open Photoacoustic Resonator

Abstract

Photoacoustic (PA) measurements with open resonators usually provide poor detection sensitivity due to signal leakage at the resonator opening. We have recently demonstrated three different approaches for modelling the photoacoustic signal of open resonators. In this work, one of the approaches is applied for the optimization of the geometry of the T-shaped resonator for improved signal strength and thus sensitivity. The results from the numerical optimization show an increase in the photoacoustic signal by a factor of approximately 7.23. They are confirmed using numerical methods other than the one applied for the optimization and by experimental measurement. The measurement shows an increase in the photoacoustic signal by a factor of approximately 2.34.

Keywords

• open resonator
• photoacoustics
• finite element simulation
• windowless resonator
• resonator shape optimization