ABSTRACT
This current study focuses on utilizing Composite Materials with Embedded PZT
Filaments for Energy Harvesting. It represents a multi-scale approach to model
embedded PZT filaments in polymer based composite material. The work presented
models multifunctional composite materials and structures on multiscales
considering piezoelectric response to mechanical loads for the reinforcement of
unidirectional composites, which are used to construct laminates of a general layup;
both membrane and bending vibrational loads are considered.
The solution for the local fields is determined in terms of a transformation field
analysis scheme in which the local stresses or strains, which are cannot be removed
by mechanical unloading are treated as eigen fields applied in an otherwise elastic
medium. In the current application, the latter represents an aggregate of
unidirectional plies and their phases. Both two phase models such as the Mori-
Tanaka model and periodic array models are employed. The solution for the overall
response is determined in terms of refined plates theory using Carrera unified
formulation. The overall electro-mechanical properties used are obtained from the
transformation field analysis conducted earlier.
The proposed modeling strategy is applied to fibrous laminates subjected to
mechanical loads. These results were then verified experimentally by using
piezoelectric ceramic composites. These smart structures will be an important
component in future designs of energy harvesting and multi-functional devoices to
increase efficiency and recover energy.