Analytical modeling of the interface crack between a piezoelectric actuator and an elastic substrate considering shear effects

In this paper, the behavior of an interface crack between a piezoelectric actuator and an elastic substrate considering shear effect is studied. Based on the Timoshenko beam theory, analytical solutions are obtained for calculating interface stresses and mode I and II energy release rates of a straight crack in piezoelectric composite adhesive interface subjected to mechanical–electrical loadings, and the adhesive layer is modeled as a continuous spring with the shear and peel stiffness. The energy release rates and stress intensity factors predicted by the present analytical solutions agree well with those available in the literatures. And the influences of the applied electrical loading, geometry and the material mismatch upon the characterization of interface crack onset for the typical piezoelectric composite structure are discussed. The present analytical solutions include the effects of shear and interface deformations. The analytical model and conclusions provided in this paper would contribute to better understanding interface failure of piezoelectric smart structures, and benefit the interface design and interface safety assessment of piezoelectric composite structures.