Ultrasonic wave propagation in composite laminates by numerical simulation

The role of transverse shear is crucial in modeling ultrasonic wave propagation in composites. The approximate plate theories have been extremely useful in providing solutions to problems involving static and dynamic loadings of uniform or laminated plates of finite dimensions. Moreover, since their simple formulations, they can also be useful for solving wave propagation problems in laminates of finite thickness and large lateral dimensions. A four-node plate bending element based on first order shear deformation theory is used in this work to predict the propagation velocity of first antisymmetric Lamb wave mode in graphite/epoxy composite plates by numerical simulation. Calculations are made using material properties obtained from a unidirectional panel via mechanical tests. For investigation, propagation along multiple directions is evaluated. Experimental and numerical results are compared at different angles of propagation and agreement between experimental and numerical approaches is found.