Acoustics Group

About

We've worked with industry partners to discover the implications for areas like science, the ecosystem and quality of life.  

Ultrasonics and underwater acoustics (UAUA)  

  
At the UAUA we take projects from science to real-world use. Our work brings together a range of different specialisms and our areas of focus include:  

• exploring how a waterfall might sound on Titan, Saturn's largest moon, and whether this could benefit the Cassini-Huygens probe mission  
• studying how dolphins think, and how this knowledge could help us protect shipping  
• producing 3D pictures of shipwrecks, allowing archaeological research without disturbing a wreck  

  
Biomedical and high-power ultrasonics  
   

We research a range of biomedical issues, such as how we can use ultrasound to change chemical reactions. This can help industries become cleaner and more efficient.  

Our research has led to developments in many areas, including:  

• a 'smart stethoscope' to assess the effectiveness of ultrasound in destroying kidney stones  
• an ultrasound system to detect osteoporosis and the general health of bone  
• a method for assessing muscle quality using ultrasound  

  
Aeroacoustics and nonlinear acoustics 

 
Our programme of research in aeroacoustics includes exploring how to reduce aircraft noise. This noise affects the quality of life of those who live near airports, and is an environmental barrier to the growth of commercial aviation.  
 
We've focused on:  

• the design of acoustic liners to reduce noise from intake and bypass ducts  
• the development of improved models for jet noise  
• developing and exploiting measurement techniques for rig and full-scale engine noise testing