Tunable multiple-scattering system

To study the propagation of multiply scattered waves, it is useful to have a medium in which the scattering properties can be easily controlled. Here, we describe such a system; it involves the propagation of ultrasonic surface waves in a medium with an aligned, disordered pattern of grooves. Waves propagating parallel to the grooves see a homogeneous medium; waves propagating perpendicular to the grooves are strongly scattered. By varying the source–receiver distance and orientation with respect to the grooves, we are able to map out the transition from ballistic to diffusive propagation. In addition, by using an optical detection system we are able to measure the wave motion inside the scattering medium. We measure the angle-dependent macroscopic properties of the medium, such as the group velocity as well as the mean-free path and the diffusion constant in the strong-scattering regime.