Optimization of coupled Lamb wave parameters for defect detection in anisotropic composite three-layer with Kelvin-Voigt viscoelasticity using Legendre polynomial method

Abstract

An extension of the Legendre polynomial method is proposed, which allows to model coupled Lamb wave propagation in anisotropic multilayers with Kelvin-Voigt viscoelastic properties in a carbon-epoxy-layer sequence [0/ϕ/0]. In spite of complicated nonlinear dependences of the constituent equations on the viscoelastic properties, a linear relationship is found between the attenuation curves calculated by Hysteretic model, and the attenuation curves calculated by the Kelvin-Voigt model. In view of verifying the feasibility of using wave propagation analysis for non-destructive testing of composite materials, predictions are made concerning the dependence of the experimentally accessible phase velocities and attenuation coefficients of the modes on (virtual, defect induced, changes of) the viscoelastic constants in general and the fiber orientation in particular. In order to get a deeper insight in the material property sensitivity of the waves and in how to excite and detect them efficiently, also the through-thickness of displacements and energies profiles of different wave modes and frequencies are investigated, and how these depend on the viscoelastic moduli Cij.