Basic theory of small-amplitude waves in a constrained elastic body (Q1073605)

The paper brings the linearized dynamics of an elastic non-conductor of heat subject to a general system of internal constraints and an arbitrary homogeneous pre-strain. The derivation of the linearized equations governing small-amplitude disturbances of the equilibrium configuration comes from the nonlinear theory. The examination of energy changes accompanying small-amplitude motions is based on partitioning of energy flux and total energy into interaction and incremental components satisfying individual conservation equations and admitting distinct interpretations. The study of solutions of the governing equations of the linear theory representing homogeneous plane waves of arbitrary profile leads to interesting conclusions concerning group velocity, slowness surface and energy relations. The analysis presented in the two last sections of the paper has close parallels to the treatment of the energetics of acceleration waves in a constrained nonlinear elastic body given by the last and the first author [Wave Motion 2, 361-374 (1980; Zbl 0459.73018)].