An overview of composite actuators with piezoceramic fibers

The use of piezoelectric ceramic materials for structural actuation is a fairly well developed practice that has found use in a wide variety of applications. However, just as advanced composites offer many benefits over traditional engineering materials for structural design, actuators that utilize the active properties of piezoelectric fibers can improve upon many of the limitations encountered with monolithic piezoceramic devices used to control structural dynamics. There are several types of active composites available commercially or under development at research institutes. This paper will discuss the manufacturing processes, intended applications and relative benefits of four different types of active fiber composite actuators. 1