A new higher-order shear deformation theory for flutter instability of a hybrid sandwich panel resting on a viscoelastic foundation

Abstract

Magnetorheological elastomers (MREs) are smart materials characterized by their ability to adjust mechanical properties through the manipulation of applied magnetic fields, facilitating rapid and reversible tunability. The incorporation of reinforcing fibers introduces distinctive materials termed Magnetorheological Elastomer Composites (MRECs), combining tunability with enhanced rigidity. This study delves into the flutter analysis of a sandwich panel with a mid-layer composed of laminated MRECs and face sheets composed of functionally graded materials (FGMs) featuring porosity. The sandwich panel is situated on a viscoelastic foundation and exposed to a supersonic air current. Employing a higher-order (hyperbolic) shear deformation theory (HSDT), the displacement field of the sandwich plate is estimated. This selection eliminates the requirement for shear correction factors. The mechanical characteristics of the three sheets are determined using the Halpin-Tsai micromechanical method and the rule of mixture. The First-order Piston theory is employed to evaluate the effect of aerodynamic pressure and airflow damping on the sandwich panel. The derivation of the motion equation is achieved through Hamilton's principle. In order to solve the motion equation of the structure, the Finite Element Method (FEM) is utilized. The investigation systematically explores the influence of diverse parameters on the flutter boundary of the sandwich panel.