Fresnelcut

Diffuser

1D Primitive-Root Diffuser (PRD)

A primitive-root diffuser looks like a QRD but is built from a different number sequence. Its defining trick: it suppresses the specular (straight-back) reflection at its design frequency, which is why it exists as a separate design.

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How it differs from a QRD

Instead of `n² mod N`, a PRD uses a primitive-root sequence `g^n mod N`, which visits every non-zero residue exactly once — so there is no zero-depth (flat) well. The payoff is a dip in energy reflected straight back toward the source at the design frequency and its harmonics. See QRD vs PRD vs skyline for a side-by-side.

Geometry, fins, and the usable band are otherwise the same as a 1D QRD. A PRD has N−1 wells (no null well) rather than N.

The math
s_n = g^n mod N, d_n = s_n · λ₀ / (2N)

g = least primitive root of the prime N. The sequence is a permutation of 1…N−1, so no well has zero depth.

Best for

  • Setups where a strong straight-back echo is the problem
  • Anyone who wants a QRD alternative with a different scatter signature

Not the tool for

  • Low-frequency problems (use an absorber)
  • When you specifically want the simplest, most-documented panel (QRD)

Start from a common size

N is the number of wells (a prime). More wells scatter more smoothly but make a wider, deeper panel. Pick one to open the designer pre-set:

Related reading

Related panel types

See all diffuser & absorber types.