An analytical model for nanoscale flexoelectric doubly curved shells

Abstract

The phenomenon of flexoelectricity, wherein the generation of electrical polarization results from strain gradients, has garnered significant attention in electromechanics. This phenomenon holds immense potential for diverse applications in nanoelectromechanical systems. Doubly curved shells present a particularly compelling structure for implementing flexoelectric devices, representing the most general scenario. To comprehensively understand the mechanical behavior of nanoscale flexoelectric doubly curved shells, we present a novel analytical model in this study. Our model incorporates a reformulated strain gradient elasticity theory, a modified expression of electric enthalpy density considering Maxwell’s self-field gradient, and a moderately thick shell configuration. To further elucidate this model, we establish complete formulations and analytical solutions of static bending and free vibration problems. This study reveals the crucial roles that various parameters such as principal curvature radii, length scale parameters, transverse structural sizes, and the Winkler–Pasternak foundation play in controlling the mechanical behavior of nanoscale flexoelectric doubly curved shells. These theoretical findings offer valuable insights into the design of nanodevices based on the direct flexoelectric effect.