A complete methodology, based on a two-scale asymptotic approach, that
enables the homogenisation of elastic lattices at non-zero frequencies is
developed. Elastic lattices are distinguished from scalar lattices in that two
or more types of coupled waves exist, even at low frequencies. Such a theory
enables the determination of effective material properties at both low and high
frequencies. The theoretical framework is developed for the propagation of
waves through lattices of arbitrary geometry and dimension. The asymptotic
approach provides a method through which the dispersive properties of lattices
at frequencies near standing waves can be described; the theory accurately
describes both the dispersion curves and the response of the lattice near the
edges of the Brillouin zone. The leading order solution is expressed as a
product between the standing wave solution and long-scale envelope functions
that are eigensolutions of the homogenised partial differential equation. The
general theory is supplemented by a pair of illustrative examples for two
archetypal classes of two-dimensional elastic lattices. The efficiency of the
asymptotic approach in accurately describing several interesting phenomena is
demonstrated, including dynamic anisotropy and Dirac cones.Comment: 24 pages, 7 figure