In the realm of acoustic engineering, a groundbreaking experiment has emerged that could revolutionize how we manipulate sound. Researchers from various institutions, including Iuliia Timankova, Mikhail Smagin, Mikhail Kuzmin, Andrey Lutovinov, Andrey Bogdanov, Yong Li, and Mihail Petrov, have successfully demonstrated the acoustic analogue of the Kerker effect using a two-dimensional coiled-space metaatom. This achievement is a significant step towards achieving spatial routing of sound with acoustic metamaterials.
The Kerker effect, originally a phenomenon in optics, refers to the control of directional scattering by balancing the interference between monopolar and dipolar resonances. In this study, the researchers engineered this interference within a high-index acoustic metaatom, effectively directing the scattering of sound waves. By doing so, they were able to suppress backward or forward responses at specific conditions, known as the first and second Kerker conditions, respectively. This means they can control whether sound waves are scattered forward, backward, or even sideways, opening up new possibilities for sound manipulation.
The experiments were conducted in a parallel-plate waveguide environment, where the scattered pressure field was measured. The results showed a remarkable agreement with full-wave simulations, validating the feasibility of Kerker-inspired wave control in acoustic systems. This breakthrough could have profound implications for various applications, including noise control, acoustic imaging, and even the design of advanced audio equipment.
Imagine a concert hall where sound engineers can precisely direct the acoustics to enhance the audience’s experience, or a recording studio where unwanted noise can be effectively suppressed. The ability to control the directionality of sound scattering could also lead to innovative developments in medical imaging and non-destructive testing, where precise acoustic control is crucial. The practical applications of this research are vast and promising, heralding a new era in the field of acoustics and audio technology.
