Numéro
J. Phys. Colloques
Volume 42, Numéro C6, Décembre 1981
International Conference on Phonon Physics
Page(s) C6-102 - C6-104
DOI https://doi.org/10.1051/jphyscol:1981632
International Conference on Phonon Physics

J. Phys. Colloques 42 (1981) C6-102-C6-104

DOI: 10.1051/jphyscol:1981632

THEORY OF THE ATTENUATION OF ELASTIC WAVES IN INHOMOGENEOUS SOLIDS

P.G. Klemens

Dept. of Physics and Inst. of Materials Science, Univ. of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06268, U.S.A.


Abstract
Temperature variations accompanying elastic waves cause heat conduction, entropy generation and thus attenuation of the waves. In homogeneous solids the temperature variations over half a wave-length and those between different phonon groups cause comparable attenuation. In inhomogeneous solids the temperature gradients are enhanced. The resulting attenuation exceeds that due to Rayleigh scattering except at very high frequencies or at low temperatures. Small inclusions and fiber-matrix composites are discussed.