3-3 composite hydrophones from distorted reticulated ceramics

Application of reticulated ceramic technology to the fabrication of 3-3 lead zirconate-titanate (PZT)/epoxy composite hydrophones has been investigated. Directional distortion of the ceramic structure to enhance the composite hydrostatic response has also been studied. Composite fabrication is described and the effects of polymer type, distortion, volume percent PZT and poling field on the hydrophone properties are presented. In general, the results indicate that reticulated ceramic composites (RCCs) have properties which are comparable to other 3-3 PZT/epoxy composites. Composites which contained the stiffer Spurr epoxy significantly out performed those containing a softer Eccogel epoxy. In addition, a distorted structure and higher density improved hydrophone response. The novel use of reticulated ceramic technology provides substantial improvement in manufacturability over other methods and allows fabrication of sensitive, low density hydrophones.