Shaping underwater soundscapes with bubble metascreens – SOUNDSCREENS

Bubble screens make remarkably efficient waterborne metasurfaces but they have been investigated only in the
MegaHertz regim so far. This project will explore their low-frequency performances and introduce several novel
devices such as smart reconfigurable bi-layers as well as anechoic waterborne chambers, setting the stage for
the shaping of underwater sound environments in the audible range. To reach these objectives, the key ingredient will consist in embedding air cavities in a super soft visco-elastic matrix, thus preserving the low-frequency caracter of their breathing resonant mode. This research will find natural applications for sound manipulation, material characterization and studies regarding structural radiation. Finally, this initiative presents a unique opportunity to leverage the latest advancements in underwater acoustics to address ermergent questions and challenges in bioacoustics, animal cognition and organization.