Axisymmetric Scholte Waves and Special Features of Propagation

As a special wave mode propagating in the interface between an infinite elastic solid and fluid, the Scholte waves are well known for their existence and frequency with distinct properties. The analysis and features are usually presented through the formulation in Cartesian coordinates, while the essential features of the phase velocity and wave patterns are also similar in other coordinates on the basis of equivalence. A variation of the Scholte wave features with a coordinate framework should be examined for possible insights related to mathematical solutions and applications besides the known properties. Using a systematic formulation with cylindrical coordinates and subsequent solutions in the Bessel functions, it is proved that the Scholte waves will attenuate with the increase of a radius in an axisymmetric case, which is different from the results in the Cartesian coordinate system. In addition, the particle trajectory will also vary due to the changes of the waveform. The examination of such features in a systematic analysis should play a prominent role in engineering applications of wave propagation associated with cylindrical solids.