An asymptotic approach to inverse scattering problems on weakly nonlinear elastic rods

Abstract

Elastic wave propagation in weakly nonlinear elastic rods is considered in the time domain. The method of wave splitting is employed to formulate a standard scattering problem, forming the mathematical basis for both direct and inverse problems. A quasi-linear version of the Wendroff scheme (FDTD) is used to solve the direct problem. To solve the inverse problem, an asymptotic expansion is used for the wave field; this linearizes the order equations, allowing the use of standard numerical techniques. Analysis and numerical results are presented for three model inverse problems: (i) recovery of the nonlinear parameter in the stress-strain relation for a homogeneous elastic rod, (ii) recovery of the cross-sectional area for a homogeneous elastic rod, (iii) recovery of the elastic modulus for an inhomogeneous elastic rod.