2-2 PZT-polymer composites for high frequency (>20 MHz) ultrasound transducers

The aim of this research is to produce single element and array transducers with resonance frequencies ranging from 20 to 50 MHz. By using tape-cast PZT with fugitive phase, PZT/polymer 2-2 composites can be made for higher sensitivity and bandwidth than existing high frequency technologies. Tape casting methods for fabricating 2-2 PZT/polymer composites were developed with specific emphasis placed on achieving uniform beam and kerf thickness. Initial prototypes were fabricated into single element transducers, and the effect of composite uniformity was determined from impedance measurements. Targeted applications for this technology are disposable catheter transducers for intravascular imaging.