SLDA058 March 2021 TUSS4470
The ultrasonic wave transmission medium, target composition, and target radar cross-section fundamentally impact the attainable range using a given transducer. For example, air-coupled ultrasonic transmissions are practically limited to below 500 kHz due to the wave dissipation through air. Generally, transmission range is inversely proportional to transducer frequency. The material composition and acoustic impedance mismatch of the target impacts the attenuation of the wave as it is reflected off of the surface.
Likewise, scattering or wave misdirection, due to the radar cross section of the target, can have a major impact on the return ultrasonic echo SPL.