3d Printed Phantom For High Frequency Ultrasound Imaging

In the field of high frequency ultrasound imaging (i.e. >= 20 MHz) there are few tools for characterizing imaging systems performances. Indeed, for this frequency range, commercial phantoms are often inadequate. We propose to investigate the use of 3D photo-polymer printing in order to make, resolution and tissue mimicking phantoms by using an original process which consist to use the normally removed support material as a surrounding medium. First, density, acoustic impedance, velocity, dispersion of wave phase velocity and attenuation of the two photo-polymer materials were measured by a reflection experimental set-up using a focused single-element transducer in frequency range of 15 MHz to 30 MHz. Then, a 3D phantom model was designed and printed. Finally, 2D and 3D acoustic images are shown by using a mechanically driven single element transducer. In conclusion, 3D printing allowed us to make phantoms adapted for high frequency including homogeneities of arbitrary geometries and surrounding medium with acoustics properties close to the human tissues like skin.