Controlling the Dynamics of Cloud Cavitation Bubbles through Acoustic Feedback

Cloud cavitation causes nontrivial energy concentration and acoustic shielding in liquid and its control is a long-standing challenge due to complex dynamics of bubble clouds. We present a framework to study closed-loop control of cavitation through acoustic feedback. While previous approaches have used empirical thresholding, we employ model-based state estimation of coherent bubble dynamics based on theory and high-performance computing. Using a pulsed ultrasound setup, we demonstrate set-point control of the pulse-repetition frequency (PRF) to modulate acoustic cavitation near a solid target over O(100) s. We identify a quasiequilibrium correlation between the PRF and the bubble dynamics and an optimal PRF to minimize acoustic shielding of the target. This framework can be readily scaled up by enhanced acoustic sensing and computational power.

Automated summary

This study introduces a framework for closed-loop control of cavitation through acoustic feedback, utilizing model-based state estimation of bubble dynamics to achieve control of acoustic cavitation. Experimental results demonstrate that set-point control of pulse-repetition frequency (PRF) can modulate acoustic cavitation near a solid target over O(100) s and minimize acoustic shielding of the target.