In this work, the nonlinear behavior of the piezoelectric actuators are investigated from the experimental analysis of a piezoelectric-beam. A sequential experimental procedure is followed to study the elastic domain and the electromechanical coupling. Though this was done before, this time emphasis is also placed on other factors that may influence the experimental results. Experimental investigations are conducted to check (i) whether the way in which the fixed boundary condition is implemented induces any nonlinear behavior in the structure’s response, (ii) whether the air drag plays a role in the observed nonlinear effect and (iii) whether the dip in the input force and voltage levels, around the resonance, lead to the observed displaying the nonlinear effect. The results of these additional studies, along with the findings from the sequential experimental procedure, suggest a linear elastic behavior and a nonlinear electromechanical coupling in the piezoelectric actuators.
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