Dispersion and frequency dependent nonlinearity parameters in a graphite-epoxy composite

Longitudinal phase velocity and nonlinearity parameter have been measured as a function of frequency in the low megaHertz range in a laminate graphite-fiber-epoxy-resin composite. Amplitudes of both the fundamental and generated second harmonics were measured absolutely with a capacitive receiver. Phase velocity and nonlinearity parameter vary with frequency. The extent of the variance depends on the orientation of the fiber layers. Comparison is made between the nonlinear differential equation appropriate for crystals and a new equation that accounts for frequency dependence of phase velocity and nonlinearity parameter. The newer equation describes the data more accurately than the crystalline model does, but appears to require additional terms.