Ensemble-averaged equations are derived for small-amplitude acoustic wave propagation
through non-dilute suspensions. The equations are closed by introducing effective
properties of the suspension such as the compressibility, density, viscoelasticity, heat
capacity, and conductivity. These effective properties are estimated as a function
of frequency, particle volume fraction, and physical properties of the individual
phases using a self-consistent, effective-medium approximation. The theory is shown
to be in excellent agreement with various rigorous analytical results accounting for
multiparticle interactions. The theory is also shown to agree well with the experimental
data on concentrated suspensions of small polystyrene particles in water
obtained by Allegra & Hawley and for glass particles in water obtained in the present
study.