Wave Propagation in the Linear Theory of Elastic Shells

The problem of wave propagation in elastic shells within the framework of a linear theory of a Cosserat surface is treated using the method of singular wave curves. The equations for determining the speeds of propagation and their associated wave mode shapes are obtained in a form involving the speeds of propagation in Cosserat plates and the curvature of the shell. A number of special cases in which the speeds and mode shapes simplify are considered. In particular, these special cases are shown to include as examples, certain systems of waves in elastic shells whose middle surfaces are the surface of revolution, the circular cylinder, the sphere, and the right helicoid.