Actuation performance of macro-fiber composite (MFC): Modeling and experimental studies

Macro fiber composite (MFC) is widely used in vibration control, energy harvesting and health monitoring applications due to its high mechanical flexibility, increased strength, environmentally sealed packaging and good blocking force. In order to study the actuation performance of MFC, a 2D model based on Kirchhoff plate theory is developed and incorporated into a finite element formulation. Numerical simulation based on the present model is validated with the experimental measurements for MFC integrated uni-morph structure. The approach is also extended to study the bi-morph configuration and results are compared with Mindlin plate theory as well as 3D finite element analysis using ABAQUS. Convergence study and stress analysis are discussed in detail to throw light on the advantages of the present model based on Kirchhoff plate theory. To identify the influence of plate thickness and piezoelectric fiber angle in MFC on actuation performance, parametric studies are conducted and reported.