Elasticity solutions for a transversely isotropic functionally graded circular plate subject to an axisymmetric transverse load qr(k)

This paper considers the bending of transversely isotropic circular plates with elastic compliance coefficients being arbitrary functions of the thickness coordinate, subject to a transverse load in the form of qr(k) (k is zero or a finite even number). The differential equations satisfied by stress functions for the particular Problem are derived. An elaborate analysis procedure is then presented to derive these stress functions, from which the analytical expressions for the axial force, bending moment and displacements are obtained through integration. The method is then applied to the problem of transversely isotropic functionally graded circular plate subject to a uniform load, illustrating the procedure to determine the integral constants from the boundary conditions. Analytical elasticity solutions are presented for simply-supported and clamped plates, and, when degenerated, they coincide with the available solutions for an isotropic homogenous plate. Two numerical examples are finally presented to show the effect of material inhomogeneity on the elastic field in FGM plates. (C) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.