Finite element method for generalized piezothermoelastic problems

This paper is concerned with the generalized piezothermoelastic problems using finite element method (FEM). The governing equations are solved directly in time-domain to minimize precision losses caused during Laplace transformation. The results reveal that the heat wave propagating in medium at a finite speed can be described. Breakdown of a linear temperature drop at the heat wave front which cannot be described by Fourier’s law is observed. Furthermore, the high concentration of stress and electric intensity at the heat wave front due to the high temperature gradient has been newly found.