Stability analysis of FGM sandwich plates by using variable-kinematics Ritz models

A linearized buckling analysis of functionally graded material (FGM) isotropic and sandwich plates is carried out by virtue of the Hierarchical Trigonometric Ritz Formulation (HTRF). Quasi-3D Ritz models based on equivalent single layer (ESL) and zig zag (ZZ) plate theories are developed within the framework of the Carrera Unified Formulation (CUF). Several in-plane loading conditions accounting for axial, biaxial, and shear loadings are taken into account. Parametric studies are carried out in order to evaluate the effects of significant parameters, such as volume fraction index, length-to-thickness ratio, sandwich plate type, and loading type, on the critical buckling loads.