Modelling and analysis of love-type wave propagation in ortho-viscoelastic and ortho-piezoelectric media with imperfect spring-double membrane interfaces

Abstract The current investigation acquires Love-type wave propagation in a layered medium comprising an ortho-viscoelastic stratum over an ortho-piezoelectric substrate, with a spring-double membrane interface. A comprehensive mathematical model is developed, incorporating both mechanical and electromechanical interactions across the interface configurations, including a novel spring-double membrane system. The resulting dispersion relation is solved numerically, with the effects of interfacial and material parameters such as membrane stiffness, density, spring constant, internal friction, and piezoelectric properties systematically analysed. Results reveal how changes in membrane properties and interface stiffness significantly influence velocity and attenuation characteristics of the Love-type waves. Notably, a critical transition in wave behaviour is identified, attributed to the density of the lower membrane. This research provides valuable insights for the optimised design of SAW-based sensing devices and layered piezoelectric structures with engineered interfacial dynamics.