Ultrasonic surface waves above a layer indented by a doubly periodic set of
holes having a square-shaped cross section are studied experimentally. Mea
surements are compared with predictions obtained from a modal model inspire
d by the theory of the diffraction of electromagnetic waves. Predictions ob
tained with the modal model and a simplified model where the periodic struc
ture is replaced by an impedance plane are compared. (C) 1999 Acoustical So
ciety of American, [S0001-4966(99)04603-2].