A layerwise semi-analytical method for modelling guided wave propagation in laminated composite infinite plates with induced surface excitation

The solution of the complete three-dimensional (3D) guided wave propagation problem in infinite laminated composite plates using a semi-analytical method is presented. The proposed method constructs the problem directly from the 3D governing equations, assuming through-the-thickness layerwise laminate mechanics with linear piecewise variation of all displacement components. The solution is then transformed into the frequency–wavenumber domain, applying sequential Fourier transforms in time and two-dimensional space. Finally, a technique for obtaining the 3D solution via the two dimensional (2D) forced problem is presented. Results for various material systems, such as isotropic, cross-ply and quasi-isotropic composite laminate plates, are shown and compared to well-established analytical results.