The analysis and interpretation of some special properties of higher order symmetric Lamb waves: The case for plates

Results derived from exact linear homogeneous elastodynamic theory are used for two-dimensional unloaded plates in order to understand certain features generated by proper symmetric Lamb modes. It is shown that S1 modes for all elastic materials have a phase velocity defined below the usual critical frequency and which initially exhibits anomalous dispersion (has a negative slope with respect to frequency). Over a certain range, it has a phase velocity that is double valued. In addition, there are an infinite number of proper symmetric Lamb modes that have this characteristic for materials with a Poisson ratio equal to 1/3. It also appears that all A3n modes are anomalous when V(L) < or = 2 V(T). The cause and implication of these effects are examined, including an associated negative group velocity over a small frequency zone for these modes. Further, it is noted that all proper symmetric Lamb modes have a plateau region in phase velocity with respect to wave number. It is shown that this always occurs for a phase velocity corresponding to the longitudinal bulk velocity of the elastic material. These issues are examined along with how one may obtain material parameters and possibly plate thickness from their dispersion curves.