Modelling electro-mechanical behaviour in piezoelectric composites: Current status and perspectives on homogenisation

Piezoelectric composites have emerged as a versatile platform with immense potential for tailoring electro-mechanical properties to cater to a wide spectrum of applications. Central to employing their capabilities are modelling and homogenisation techniques, both analytical and numerical, which serve as the cornerstone of analysing and optimising these materials applications. As technology continues to evolve, the development of sophisticated models and innovative composite designs promises to drive further advancements in the realm of piezoelectric composites. This comprehensive review explores the analytical and numerical models employed for homogenising piezoelectric composites. It systematically presents and scrutinises these models, shedding light on their distinct advantages and limitations, thereby aiding researchers in selecting the most appropriate one for their specific needs. This review highlights challenges in modelling long-fibre composites, citing limitations in Eshelby-Type Models. Simplifying micromechanics-based models encounters challenges when dealing with transverse properties, while Asymptotic Homogenization-Based Models excel in regular patterns. Limited experimental validation exists, particularly in metallic matrices. In conclusion, this comprehensive review navigates the diverse landscape of modelling strategies for Representative Volume Elements, each with its unique strengths and limitations. Researchers in this field must judiciously select modelling techniques based on their piezoelectric characteristics and desired accuracy levels. Additionally, the pressing need for further experimental validation, especially concerning metallic matrices, stands out as a critical avenue for enhancing the reliability and real-world applicability of these modelling techniques.