Review of Research Progress on Acoustic Test Equipment for Hydrate-Bearing Sediments

When acoustic waves propagate through hydrate samples, they carry extensive information related to their physical and mechanical properties. These details are comprehensively reflected in acoustic parameters such as velocity, attenuation coefficient, waveform, frequency, spectrum, and amplitude variations. Based on these parameters, it is possible to invert the physical and mechanical indicators and microstructural characteristics of hydrate samples, thereby addressing a series of issues in hydrate development engineering. This study first provides an overview of the current applications and prospects of acoustic testing in hydrate development. Subsequently, it systematically elaborates on the progress in research on acoustic testing systems for hydrate samples, including the principles of acoustic testing, ship-borne hydrate core acoustic detection systems, laboratory hydrate sample acoustic testing systems, and resonance column experimental systems. Based on this foundation, this study further discusses the development trends and challenges of acoustic testing equipment for hydrate-bearing sediments.