Impact of Heterogeneity and Rectangular Irregularity on the Propagation of Love Waves in a Thermoelastic Layer

This study investigates the propagation of Love waves in a layered system composed of a homogeneous thermoelastic layer with an upper rigid surface, resting over a non-homogeneous elastic half-space. A rectangular-shaped irregularity is introduced at the interface between the thermoelastic layer and non-homogeneous half space to simulate geometric discontinuity. The governing equations of motion are formulated using Biot’s theory of elasticity, incorporating the effects of temperature-dependent material behaviour through generalized thermoelasticity. Fourier transformation and perturbation techniques are applied to derive the dispersion relation governing Love wave propagation. Numerical evaluation of the dispersion relation using MATLAB demonstrates that phase velocity is significantly influenced by the thermal coupling parameter, inhomogeneity factor, and irregularity dimensions. The results reveal that the thermal effects, in combination with material inhomogeneity and rectangular interface irregularities, significantly influence the phase velocity of Love waves. The present analysis provides theoretical insight into the combined influence of thermal effects and structural irregularities, with potential applications in geophysical exploration and thermoelastic material design.