A finite element approach for computing edge singularities in piezoelectric materials

By using the eigenfunction expansion technique and the weak form of the governing equations for prismatic sectorial domains composed of piezoelectrics and air, an one-dimensional finite element procedure is formulated for computing the eigensolutions of the electromechanical field problem. Generalized displacement and electric potential are taken to be the nodal variables. The resulting global equation is a second order characteristic matrix equation. Validity of the formulation is verified by comparing the computed results with the existing solutions for impermeable cracks and interfacial cracks. Configurations which are of practical interest including conducting cracks, permeable and impermeable notches are studied. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.