Control of free-edge interlaminar stresses in composite laminates using piezoelectric actuators

Abstract

The control of free-edge interlaminar stresses in laminated composite structures using a stress function-based approach is proposed. The assumed stress fields satisfy pointwise traction and free boundary conditions at surfaces. Governing equations are derived using the principle of complementary virtual work. A general eigenvalue solution procedure was adopted to obtain accurate stress states of the laminated composite structure. The results obtained from the proposed method were compared with those obtained by three-dimensional finite element analyses. It was found that interlaminar stresses generated by mechanical loadings could be significantly reduced by applying proper electric fields to piezoelectric actuators, which were surface bonded or embedded in composite laminates. Locations of piezoelectric actuators also influenced the distributions of interlaminar stresses. The results provided that piezoelectric actuators have potential in the application to actively control interlaminar stresses in composite laminates.

Effect of stiffness and thickness ratio of host plate and piezoelectric patches on reduction of the stress concentration factor

“…They investigated the vibration control of a flexible fin. Huang and Kim (2014) studied controlling the free-edge interlaminar stresses in composite plates using smart structures. They found that using piezoelectric actuators bonded on the surface or embedded in the composite laminates, stress significantly reduced in the plate.…”