Static Finite Element Analysis of Piezoelectric Laminated Composite Plates

Abstract

Piezoelectric Laminated Composite Plates are used to construct intelligent structures. They consist of composite laminates embedded with layers of Piezo-electric materials. The present study covers the analysis of laminated composite plates embedded with plates of piezo-electric materials, using Finite Element Analysis. Specially, the study includes the behaviour of plate under transverse normal stresses and strains, and electric field. A displacement model with two mechanical degrees of freedom and one electric degree of freedom (i.e. voltage) is considered. Finite element formulation is derived using 8-node isoperametric (serendipity) element based on displacement function. Study of electromechanical coupling effect is done from direct piezo-electric effect (sensing action) and converse piezo-electric effect (actuation action). Results of plate de ection and internal stresses of several examples are compared with the results reported in available literatures. Computer programs are developed for automatic mesh generation of Piezo-electric Laminated Composite plate for static de ection and interlaminar stresses under uniform transverse loads. The program supports any number of elements, geometry, support conditions, mechanical loading and electrical loading. In addition, the analysis of piezolaminated plates is done in Finite Element Analysis software to enhance the knowledge of software applications on Piezo-electric Laminated Composite Plates.