Modeling ultrasound attenuation in porous structures with mono-disperse random pore distributions using the independent scattering approximation: a 2D simulation study.

The validity of the independent scattering approximation (ISA) to predict the frequency dependent attenuation in 2D models of simplified structures of cortical bone is studied. Attenuation of plane waves at central frequencies ranging from 1 to 8 MHz propagating in structures with mono-disperse random pore distributions with pore diameter and pore density in the range of those of cortical bone are evaluated by finite difference time domain numerical simulations. An approach to assess the multiple scattering of waves in random media is discussed to determine the pore diameter ranges at which the ISA is applicable. A modified version of the ISA is proposed to more accurately predict the attenuation in porosity ranges where it would traditionally fail. The results show that the modified ISA can model the frequency-dependent attenuation of ultrasonic wave with pore diameter and density ranges comparable to those of cortical bone.