On thermal stability of plates with functionally graded coefficient of thermal expansion

In this article, a four-variable refined plate theory is presented for buckling analysis of functionally graded plates subjected to uniform, linear and non-linear temperature rises across the thickness direction. The theory accounts for parabolic distribution of the transverse shear strains, and satisfies the zero traction boundary conditions on the surfaces of the plate without using shear correction factor. Young's modulus and Poisson ratio of the FGM plates are assumed to remain constant throughout the entire plate. However, the coefficient of thermal expansion of the FGM plate varies according to a power law form through the thickness coordinate. Equilibrium and stability equations are derived based on the present theory. The influences of many plate parameters on buckling temperature difference such ratio of thermal expansion, aspect ratio, side-to-thickness ratio and gradient index will be investigated.