Mode Localization in Dynamics and Buckling of Linear Imperfect Continuous Structures

Localization phenomena in one-dimensional imperfect continuous structures are analyzed, both in dynamics and buckling. By using simple models, fundamental concepts about localization are introduced and similarities between dynamics and buckling localization are highlighted. In particular, it is shown that strong localization of the normal modes is due to turning points in which purely imaginary characteristic exponents assume a non zero real part; in contrast, if turning points do not occur, only weak localization can exist. The possibility of a disturbance propagating along the structure is also discussed. A perturbation method is then illustrated, which generalizes the classical WKB method; this allows the differential problem to be transformed into a sequence of algebraic problems in which the spatial variable appears as a parameter. Applications of the method are worked out for beams and strings on elastic soil. All these structures are found to have nearly-defective system matrices, so their characteristic exponents are highly sensitive to imperfections.