Pore anisotropy in 3–3 piezoelectric composites

A piezoelectric composite of the ‘3–3’ type consists of an active piezoceramic phase and passive polymer phase that are interpenetrating Previous research on analytical modelling 3–3 material has considered equiaxed open pores in a piezoelectric ceramic and has assumed complete stress transfer of an applied load into the stiffer ceramic matrix. This research examines the influence of pore anisotropy on the hydrostatic properties. The model developed and results are a useful aid to fabricate and optimise piezocomposite 3–3 structures for specific applications.