Electro-mechanical response of functionally graded beams with imperfectly integrated surface piezoelectric layers

The time-dependent behavior of a simply-supported functionally graded beam bonded with piezoelectric sensors and actuators is studied using the state-space method. The creep behavior of bonding adhesives between piezoelectric layers and beam is characterized by a Kelvin-Voigt viscoelastic model, which is practical in a high temperature circumstance. Both the host elastic functionally graded beam and the piezoelectric layers are orthotropic and in a state of plane stress, with the former being inhomogeneous along the thickness direction. A laminate model is employed to approximate the host beam. Moreover, the coupling effect between the elastic deformation and electric field in piezoelectric layers is considered. Results indicate that the viscoelastic property of interfacial adhesives has a significant effect on the function of bonded actuators and sensors with time elapsing.