Measurement of sand particle motion speed in multiphase wind-sand flow based on piezoelectric ceramic sensors

Utilizing Pb(ZrTi)O3-5A piezoelectric ceramic (hereafter referred to as PZT-5A) as sensors, we studied the movement speed of sand particles in multiphase wind-sand flows. We developed a mathematical model that effectively links the impact force of sand grains with the output voltage of PZT-5A, incorporating factors such as the piezoelectric coefficient and sand particle characteristics. Additionally, we proposed a new method to accurately determine the elastic recovery coefficient of sand particles using PZT-5A sensor measurements and experimental setups, which is significant for the field of material science. Wind tunnel experiments revealed that at heights ranging from 0.1 to 1.0m, sand particle speeds range from 52.8% to 91.4% of wind speeds. As wind speed increases to 15m/s, sand particle speed nears 91.4% of wind speed. Yet, at a constant wind speed, sand speed drops as sediment discharge rises. This research offers fresh insights into sand particle dynamics in wind-sand contexts.