Wave propagation in an inhomogeneous transversely isotropic material obeying the generalized power law model

The analytical solutions for body-wave velocity in a continuously inhomogeneous transversely isotropic material, in which Young’s moduli (E, E′), shear modulus (G′), and material density (ρ) change according to the generalized power law model, (a+bz)c, are set down. The remaining elastic constants of transversely isotropic media, ν, and ν′ are assumed to be constants throughout the depth. The planes of transversely isotropy are selected to be parallel to the horizontal surface. The generalized Hooke’s law, strain-displacement relationships, and equilibrium equations are integrated to constitute the governing equations. In these equations, utilizing the displacement components as fundamental variables, the solutions of three quasi-wave velocities (VSV, VP, VSH) are generated for the present inhomogeneous transversely isotropic materials. The proposed solutions are compared with those of Daley and Hron (Bull Seismol Soc Am 67:661–675, (1977)), and Levin (Geophysics 44:918–936, (1979)) when the inhomogeneity parameter c = 0. The agreement between the present results and previously published ones is excellent. In addition, the parametric study results reveal that the magnitudes of wave velocity are remarkably affected by (1) the inhomogeneity parameters (a, b, c); (2) the type and degree of material anisotropy (E/E′, ν/ν′, G/G′); (3) the phase angle (θ); and (4) the depth of the medium (z). Consequently, it is imperative to consider the effects of inhomogeneity when investigating wave propagation in transversely isotropic media.