An analytic approach to piezoelectric fiber composites - From micromechanics modeling to beam behavior

In the context of adaptive systems, the technology of piezoelectric fiber c omposites with its capabilities for high-speed actuation and the beneficial effects of tailorable anisotropy is of great interest for structurally int egrated vibration suppression and acoustic control. In order to study the i nteraction between active and load carrying functionalities and to analyze the influence of the diverse parameters, an analytic model containing all m ajor characteristics from the micromechanics to the structural mechanics le vel is described. The effective electroelastic properties of a lamina with embedded continuous piezoceramic fibers exposed to an electric field in fib er direction are examined in the closeup investigation of a representative volume. With the aid of the classical lamination theory, extended by the in ternal actuation loads, such plies can be combined for the respective purpo se. Finally, the active and passive properties of a single-cell closed cros s-section beam with walls made from these laminated composites are derived.