The non-classical linear governing equations of strain gradient piezoelectricity with micro-inertia effect are used to investigate Love wave propagation in a layered piezoelectric structure. The influence of flexoelectricity and micro-inertia effect on the phase wave velocity in a thin homogeneous flexoelectric layer deposited on a piezoelectric substrate is investigated. The dispersion relation for Love waves is obtained. The phase velocity is numerically calculated and graphically illustrated for the electric open-circuit and short-circuit conditions and for distinct material properties of the layer and substrate. The influence of direct flexoelectricity, micro-inertia effect, as well as the layer thickness on Love wave propagation is studied individually. It is found that flexoelectricity increases the Love-wave phase velocity, while the micro-inertia effect reduces its value. These effects become more significant for Love waves with shorter wavelengths and small guiding layer thicknesses.
Keywords: dispersion relation; flexoelectricity; love waves; micro-inertia effect; piezoelectricity; strain gradient theory.