Reflection and transmission of phonons at a planar interface between two dissimilar solids

Two semi-infinite dissimilar crystals with, however, the same crystal structure and lattice parameter are in contact at a planar interface. Using a simple force constant model, restricted to near-neighbour interaction reflection and transmission coefficients for sound waves propagating along one solid are calculated. At low frequencies the reflection and transmission coefficients are determined solely by the force constants and the atomic masses in the two media. At high frequencies the transmission coefficient becomes small if the force constant at the interface between the two media is weak. Information of the local force constant in the interface region can be gained at least in principle, by measuring the reflection and transmission coefficients at high frequencies.