Acoustic wave dispersion in a one-dimensional lattice of nonlinear resonant scatterers

Nonlinear effects of acoustic wave propagation and dispersion are observed in a one-dimensional lattice made of Helmholtz resonators connected to a tube. These regularly spaced scatterers exhibit individually a wave frequency dependence, which induces a strong velocity dispersion. In addition, they exhibit a wave amplitude dependence (acoustic nonlinearity), which induces nonlinear effects on the dispersion relation of waves in the lattice. The usually observed forbidden frequency band gaps for the transmission coefficient through the lattice are shown to be amplitude dependent. Experimental results are compared to a developed model taking into account the nonlinear behavior of the Helmholtz resonator.