Dynamic response of a generalized piezoelectric-thermoelastic problem under fractional order theory of thermoelasticity

The dynamic response of a piezoelectric-thermoelastic rod made of piezoelectric ceramics (PZT-4) subjected to a moving heat source is dealt with in the context of the fractional order theory of thermoelasticity. The piezoelectric-thermoelastic governing equations for the problem are formulated and then solved by means of Laplace transform together with its numerical inversion. The distributions of the considered nondimensional temperature, displacement, stress, and electric potential are obtained and illustrated graphically. The effects of fractional order parameter and the velocity of heat source on the variations of the considered variables are investigated, and the results show that they have significant influence on the variations of the considered variables. The present investigation could be helpful for better understanding the multi-field coupling effect of mechanical, electric, and thermal fields in real piezoelectric ceramics structures, and provide some guidelines in the optimal design of actuators or sensors made of piezoelectric ceramics serving in a thermoelastic environment.