Non-Linear Structural Analysis of Shear Flexible FGM Beams

Abstract

Non-linear structural response of Functionally Graded Material (FGM) beams is studied using the finite element method. The deformations obtained using Euler-Bernoulli beam and Timoshenko beam theories are compared for different length to height ratios, volume fraction exponents and boundary conditions. The percentage errors in lateral deformations for neglecting the effects of shear flexibility are discussed in detail. Through thickness variation of the axial stress shows a shift in the neutral axis from the mid-thickness of beam for homogenous as well as FGM beams and for the boundary conditions considered. The range of volume fraction exponents for the practical design of FGM beams is suggested to avoid steep stress gradients.