Characterization of piezoelectric stack actuators for structural control applications

In this paper we experimentally evaluate the response of several piezoelectric stack actuators under different loading conditions (mechanical, electrical and electromechanical). An improved smart material actuators measurement method suited for static and dynamic actuation is devised (Fig. 1). The output displacement of the active material is recorded under various prestress level and voltage values. The measurements indicate a strong dependence of piezoelectric properties under electromechanical loading conditions for the actuators. Results indicate that certain operating conditions (i.e., mechanical prestress) can improve actuation capabilities