Nonlinear Static Behavior of FG-CNT Reinforced Composite Flat Panel under Thermomechanical Load

The nonlinear static deflections of a functionally graded carbon nanotube (FG-CNT) reinforced flat composite panel are examined under a uniform thermal environment for different end conditions. The temperature-dependent material properties of the matrix and the fiber (carbon nanotubes) are considered in conjunction with the different gradients of carbon nanotube concentrations through the thickness direction. The mathematical model of the carbon nanotube reinforced flat composite panel is formulated for different types of gradients using the Green-Lagrange geometrical strain in the framework of the shear deformable higher-order kinematic theory. Further, the equilibrium equation of the panel is obtained using the variational method and discretized through the finite-element concept. The nonlinear deflections are worked out numerically using the direct iterative method via a suitable computer code. The validation and the convergence performance of the present numerical results were checked. Finally, the significance and inevitability of such a higher-order nonlinear model for the analysis of gradient carbon nanotube structure are established by solving different numerical examples for various parameters (types of grading, aspect ratios, thickness ratios, volume fractions, thermal field, and end conditions) and discussed in detail. (C) 2016 American Society of Civil Engineers.