Modeling and analysis of delaminated beams with integrated piezoelectric actuators

In this article, a mathematical model for beams with partially delaminated layers is presented to investigate their behavior by using Euler–Bernoulli beam theory. The principal advantage of the element is that it allows the modeling of delamination anywhere in the structure. The region without delamination is modeled to carry constant peel and shear stresses; while the region with delamination is modeled by assuming that there is no peel and shear stress transfer between the top and bottom layers. Moreover, in the interfaces between the regions with and without delamination, both displacements and forces continuity conditions are imposed. The accuracy of the models is verified by comparing results with previously published data.