Finite-amplitude waves in isotropic elastic plates

The propagation of finite-amplitude waves in a homogeneous, isotropic, stress-free elastic plate is investigated theoretically. Geometric and weak material non-linearities are included, and perturbation is used to obtain solutions of the non-linear equations of motion for harmonic generation in the waveguide. Solutions for the second-harmonic, sum, and difference-frequency components are obtained via modal decomposition. Ordinary differential equations for the modal amplitudes in the expansion of the second-order solution are obtained using a reciprocity relation. There are no restrictions on the modes or frequencies of the primary waves. Two conditions for internal resonance are quantified: phase matching, and transfer of power from the primary to the secondary wave. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.