An elasticity solution is presented for the static equilibrium equations of an axisymmetric composite cylinder under loadings due to embedded piezoelectric laminae. The solution is used to study both uniform and non-uniform distributions of the piezoelectric effect and results are verified using the finite element method. A cylindrical truss element actuator is developed based upon this analysis and shown to be useful in damping vibrations of truss-type structures. It has also been shown that by varying the distribution of the piezoelectric effect. spatially, modal actuators capable of actuating specific modes of axial vibrations in a bar can be developed. Finally, the effects of a piezoelectric patch have been investigated. The axial forces generated at the fixed ends of a cylinder are demonstrated to be proportional to the length of the patch. / Master of Science