Propagation characteristics of love-type wave at the electro-mechanical imperfect interface of a piezoelectric fiber-reinforced composite layer overlying a piezoelectric half-space

Abstract

In the present work, the micro-mechanical modeling of a piezoelectric fiber-reinforced composite (PFRC) is established using the analytical techniques of Strength of Materials and Rule of Mixtures, along with analyzing some of its electro-mechanical advantages over monolithic piezoelectric materials. Thereafter, the characteristics of a Love-type wave propagating at the imperfect interface of a layered structure comprising a PFRC layer overlying a piezoelectric half-space are analytically studied. The interface is classified into five exclusive types, viz. Mechanically compliant dielectrically weakly and highly conducting, welded interface, low dielectric interface, and grounded metallized interface, accounting for various realistic scenarios in different engineering applications. With the aid of suitable boundary conditions accounting for the different types of interfaces, the dispersion relations of the Love-type wave are derived considering both electrically open and short conditions at the free surface. The natures of phase velocity under the influence of the different interfacial imperfections and fiber volume fractions are graphically illustrated. The obtained results are validated by reducing and matching them with some results in the extant literature on Love wave propagation in terms of mathematical equations and graphs. The influences of the material parameters on the electromechanical coupling factor and piezoelectric coupling parameter are meticulously analyzed as these are vital properties that govern the efficiency of transducers and sensors. The outcomes of the present work may be applied in several scientific and engineering disciplines utilizing electroelastic transducers, sensors, capacitors, actuators, and in applications involving SAW devices and Love wave sensors to enhance their performance for obtaining high output in the long run.