Nonlinear guided bulk waves in heterogeneous elastic structural elements

Guided nonlinear bulk strain waves are considered in heterogeneous composite materials, containing macro- or micro(nano)inclusions as the main sources of nonuniformity. Theory is based on the combination of the finite deformation and the 5-constant (Murnaghan) nonlinear elasticity, that leads under several assumptions to the only nonlinear doubly dispersive equation with variable coefficients (DDE) for a component of longitudinal strain in rod and in shell. Numerical simulations performed and experimental data are discussed, and lead to conclusions concerning dramatic influence of heterogeneity in dynamic behaviour of strain solitons in solids. We have shown how different smooth variations in elasticity may lead to either amplification or decay of strain solitons in both polymer rod and shell. These date can be useful in the NDT problems, and in problems of the solids integrity under intense elastic pulse loading.