Holistic framework to control ultrasonic cavitation in liquid media based on a systematic review

The management of acoustic cavitation is crucial for enhancing the performance of optimised sonoreactors in various fields. With a growing interest in eco-friendly methods employing sono-reactors, the assessment of cavitation caused by ultrasonic devices is increasingly significant. Controlling cavitation is vital to maximise energy efficiency and its related impacts. Currently, traditional measurement methods include physical techniques (such as aluminium foil tests and calorimetry), optical methods (such as high-speed imaging, sonoluminescence, and particle image velocimetry), chemical approaches (including fluorescence and dosimetry), as well as acoustic methods (like hydrophones and active cavitation detectors). However, each of these methodologies possesses inherent limitations that can compromise measurement accuracy, lead to unnecessary costs, and result in a lack of methodological rigour. This review suggests an organised framework designed to assist in selecting the most suitable technique from the widely used methods, tailored to different application contexts. The framework includes application-specific questions derived from the review, helping to pinpoint methods that meet specific requirements. • Framework defined to improve the selection of techniques for acoustic cavitation control. • Control acoustic cavitation mainly relies on acoustic, physical, chemical, or optical methods. • Optical methods combined with acoustic ones are most common. Cross-methods improve assessment.