Detecting Presence of Bubbles Within Simulated Blood Vessels Using a Piezoelectric Ring Set to Oscillate at Matching Resonant Conditions

Abstract

A variety of methods have been used to detect and measure the presence and size of bubbles that occur naturally in tubes or blood vessels. These traits have recently produced interest in biomedical fields including drug delivery systems and decompression sickness, among others. To detect and measure bubbles, optical, acoustic, and equivalent bulk properties methods have primarily been used; each exploiting unique characteristics of bubbles [1]. Among these, Doppler techniques based on the backscattering of ultrasound waves, have been used to detect and measure bubbles within fluid media [2,3].

Low‐power gas microbubble detection technology based on acoustic resonance

“…The concept applied for bubble detection was originally tested in a resonant acoustic chamber designed by our group. 9,33,34 Briefly, this acoustic chamber consists of a cylindrical borosilicate glass with a diameter of 95 and 300 mm in length, sandwiched between two square acrylic flanges where all required fittings for fluid and bubble injection are installed. Two off centered 8 mm vinyl tubes run the length of the glass cylinder where bubbles can be injected, and the rest of the chamber is filled with degassed water.…”