Analysis of Love-mode SAW device with phononic crystal waveguide

Surface acoustic waves (SAW) are widely used in high-frequency signal processing. However, development of next-generation applications is hindered by acoustic losses in conventional SAW devices, which beckons the need for low-loss configurations. This study investigates a SAW filter utilizing Love-mode propagation and phononic crystal (PnC) waveguides, which consist of PnCs patterned within a thin guiding layer on a piezoelectric substrate. It is speculated Love waves may concentrate acoustic energy to the surface and decrease bulk acoustic losses, while PnCs offer precise confinement through generation of bandgaps. We provide a theoretical model for the design and evaluation of Love-mode SAW devices, informing the relationship between the frequency characteristics of the waveguide and key design parameters.