Higher-order finite element solution of graphene platelets reinforced nanocomposite curved panels with uniform/non-uniform porosity

Abstract

This paper reveals the deformation behavior of graphene platelets reinforced (GPLR) nanocomposite shell panels including the porosity effects. The graphene platelets are assumed to be uniformly distributed across the thickness of the panel. The spatial-dependent elastic properties of the nanocomposite are computed via the modified Halpin-Tsai micromechanics scheme including the porosity effect. Three different patterns of porosity distribution are assumed through the thickness of the panel structure, namely, uniformly distributed (UD), non-uniformly distributed (ND-Type A), and non-uniformly distributed (ND-Type B). The kinematics of the present shallow shell structure is based on the equivalent single-layer higher-order theory via Green-Lagrange geometric nonlinearity. The weak form is governed through the principle of virtual work and further solved using 2D-isoparametric finite element approximations in conjunction with Picard’s successive iteration scheme. The convergence of the present model is achieved by performing a mesh refinement process and the accuracy of the model is verified by comparing numerical results with previously published literature. Finally, the influence of porosity distribution is analyzed on the center deflection of GPLR nanocomposite curved panels subjected to uniform and sinusoidal loads of different panel geometry under different support conditions.

Keywords:

• Graphene platelets
• nanocomposites
• deformation
• nonlinear FEM
• higher-order
• micromechanics

Data availability statement

• Some or all data, models, or codes that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.