Dynamics of structural interfaces: Filtering and focussing effects for elastic waves

Dynamics of thick interfaces separating different regions of elastic materials is investigated. The interfaces are made up of elastic layers or inertial truss structures. The study of evanescent mode propagation and transmission properties reveals that the discrete nature of structural interfaces introduces unusual filtering characteristics in the system, which cannot be obtained with multilayered interfaces. An example of metamaterial is presented, namely, a planar structural interface, which acts as a flat lens, therefore evidencing the negative refraction and focussing of elastic waves.