Rheology-dependent surface wave characteristics in an advanced geomaterial flexoelectric plate with viscoelastic coating

Abstract This study investigates the transmission of seismic surface waves in a composite framework comprising a viscoelastic layer overlying a flexoelectric material. The study focuses on understanding the impact of different viscoelastic models (Maxwell, Newtonian, and Kelvin-Voigt) and interface conditions (smooth and welded contact) on the damping and dispersion characteristics of these waves. To achieve this, the study employs a variable-separable technique and appropriate boundary conditions to derive complex frequency relations for electrically open and short circuits scenarios. These relations are subsequently divided into real and imaginary parts to examine the dispersion and dampening properties, respectively. Numerical simulations are conducted to analyze the response of flexoelectric coefficient, viscoelastic layer thickness, and bonding parameter on phase velocity and dampening coefficient. The research findings indicate that the attenuation properties of the Maxwell and Newtonian models are lower compared to the Kelvin-Voigt model. Graphical comparisons highlight the influence of viscoelastic models and interface characteristics on wave propagation. This research can help in the development of sensors, energy harvesters, and wave manipulation devices that employ flexoelectric materials with viscoelastic coatings. Knowledge of surface wave dynamics in these structures is vital for their optimal performance.