Abstract
New techniques for the interferometric measurement of quasi-static and dynamic pressure variations are discussed. The pressure variations are transmitted through oil contained in a closed cavity and the measurements depend on an experimental calibration constant derived solely from measurements of mass and length. The sensitivities of the interferometers (a Michelson and a Jamin) are adjusted so that pressure variations produce phase changes of less than +or- pi /2; this then allows the pressure variations to be directly displayed. In an application of the technique pressure transducers are calibrated by mounting the elements in the side of the cavity. Their outputs are then compared with pressure variations measured over the frequency range from 0 (quasi-static pressure changes) to 6 kHz.