Effects of interface energy on scattering of plane elastic wave by a nano-sized coated fiber

In the framework of surface elasticity theory, the scattering of plane compressional and shear waves by a single nano-sized coated fiber embedded in an elastic matrix is studied using the method of eigenfunction expansion. The dynamic stress concentration factors along the interface between the coated fiber and the matrix induced by the plane elastic wave and scattering cross section are derived and numerically evaluated. The interface stress, inhomogeneous material constants and thickness of the coated layer on the scattering of the elastic wave become much more important when the radius of the coated-fiber is reduced to the nanometer scale. These were confirmed by the use of numerical results. Our results can aid in understanding the dynamic mechanical properties of nano-composites. The proposed method has potential applications in the characterization of the interfacial layer that links reinforced fibers to their matrix. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.