Nonlinear dynamic stability of composite plates with piezoelectric layers subjected to periodic in-plane load

Abstract

Nonlinear dynamic stability characteristics of composite plates subjected to periodic in-plane load are investigated via the finite element method with dynamic response analysis. Piezoelectric actuator layers are embedded at the top and bottom of the laminated composite plate. The theoretical formulation is based on the modified first order shear deformation theory (MFSDT) incorporating the von Karman type nonlinear strains. The structural system is considered to be undamped. The nonlinear governing equations obtained are solved using the Newmark's direct integration method coupled with the direct iteration method. The boundaries of dynamic instability regions are obtained using Bolotin's approach. Effects of in-plane forcing frequency and applied voltage on the characteristic features of dynamic stability behaviour are investigated using both linear and nonlinear dynamic response analyses.