Lamb waves propagate in solid plates. They are elastic waves whose particle motion lies in the plane that contains the direction of wave propagation and the plate normal (the direction perpendicular to the plate). In 1917, the English mathematician Horace Lamb published his classic analysis and description of acoustic waves of this type. Their properties turned out to be quite complex. An infinite medium supports just two wave modes traveling at unique velocities; but plates support two infinite sets of Lamb wave modes, whose velocities depend on the relationship between wavelength and plate thickness.
Since the 1990s, the understanding and utilization of Lamb waves has advanced greatly, thanks to the rapid increase in the availability of computing power. Lamb's theoretical formulations have found substantial practical application, especially in the field of nondestructive testing.
The term Rayleigh–Lamb waves embraces the Rayleigh wave, a type of wave that propagates along a single surface. Both Rayleigh and Lamb waves are constrained by the elastic properties of the surface(s) that guide them.
Read more about Lamb Waves: Lamb's Characteristic Equations, Velocity Dispersion Inherent in The Characteristic Equations, The Zero-order Modes, The Higher-order Modes, Point Sources and Waves With Cylindrical Symmetry, Guided Lamb Waves, Lamb Waves in Ultrasonic Testing, Lamb Waves in Acousto-ultrasonic Testing, Lamb Waves in Acoustic Emission Testing, Ultrasonic and Acoustic Emission Testing Contrasted
Famous quotes containing the words lamb and/or waves:
“Separate from the pleasure of your company, I don’t much care if I never see another mountain in my life.”
—Charles Lamb (1775–1834)
“Dr. Scofield’s equipment, which you have just seen, radiated waves direct to Professor Houghland’s laboratory. When these waves came in contact with those the professor’s equipment was radiating, they created the interstellar frequency, which is the death ray.”
—Joseph O’Donnell, and Clifford Sanforth. Arthur Perry (Bela Lugosi)