Wave propagation simulation in an electrically open shell reinforced with multi-phase nanocomposites

Abstract

Wave propagation simulation in a multi-hybrid nanocomposite (MHC)-reinforced doubly curved open shell covered with piezoelectric actuator is examined for the first time. The third-order shear deformation theory (third-order SDT) is applied to formulate the stress–strain relations. Rule of the mixture and modified Halpin–Tsai model are engaged to provide the effective material constants of the MHC-reinforced open shell. By employing Hamilton’s principle, the governing equations of the structure are derived. Via the compatibility rule, the bonding between the smart layer and sandwich open shell is modeled. Also, with the aid of Maxwell's equation, the mechanics of the piezoelectric layer are formulated. Afterward, a parametric study is carried out to investigate the effects of the CNTs’ weight fraction, various FG face sheet patterns, small radius to total thickness ratio, the thickness of the smart layer, externally applied voltage, and carbon fiber angle on the phase velocity of the MHC-reinforced open shell. Another necessary consequence is that as the externally applied voltage to the piezoelectric layer of the smart open shell increases, there will be seen an enhancement on the phase velocity or wave response of the system and without a doubt this issue is much more substantial at the lower wave number. It is also observed that when the applied voltage is more than zero, we can find a range for the fiber angle that these values are the critical fiber angle and this critical range will expand by increasing the external electrical load. The useful suggestion of this study is that for designing the structure, we should attention to the FG pattern and higher value of the wavenumber, simultaneously. The presented study outputs can be used in ultrasonic inspection techniques and structural health monitoring.