Analytical modelling of 3-3 piezoelectric composites

A piezoelectric composite of the '3-3' type consists of interpenetrating ac tive piezoceramic and passive polymer phases. Applications for these materi als include low frequency hydrophones, due to the improved properties and f igures of merit under hydrostatic conditions. Previous research on analytic al modelling 3-3 materials has considered polymer infiltrated equiaxed open pores in a piezoelectric ceramic and has assumed complete stress transfer of an applied load into the stiffer ceramic matrix. This research extends t he analytical modelling of 3-3 piezocomposites to include the load experien ced by the polymer phase. The model is a useful aid to fabricate and optimi se piezocomposite 3-3 structures for specific applications. (C) 2001 Elsevi er Science Ltd. All rights reserved.