Anisotropic functionally graded nano-beam models and closed-form solutions in plane gradient elasticity

Abstract

This study delves into the investigation of exact analytical solutions for the plane stress and displacement fields within linear homogeneous anisotropic nano-beam models of gradient elasticity. It focuses on solving the Helmholtz equation, which encompasses a second-order non-homogeneous linear partial differential equation in plane gradient elasticity theory, utilizing polynomial series-type solutions. The analysis centers on the utilization of gradient Airy stress functions to derive stress fields in the gradient theory. The research yields closed-form analytical solutions for Airy stress functions, stress, and strain fields in both classical and gradient theories. The study considers five distinct types of two-dimensional functionally graded cantilever beams with various boundary conditions: a cantilever anisotropic nano-beam subjected to a concentrated force at the free end, a cantilever anisotropic nano-beam under a uniform load, a simple anisotropic nano-beam under a uniform load, a propped cantilever anisotropic nano-beam under a uniform load, and a fixed end cantilever anisotropic nano-beam under a uniform load. General analytical solutions for the gradient stress and displacement fields of two-dimensional and one-dimensional anisotropic nano-beams under different boundary conditions are provided. The study showcases significant strain gradient size effects at the nano-scale through the derived analytical solutions for anisotropic beams. Additionally, it demonstrates that the strain gradient theory results for the limit case of the gradient coefficient c precisely align with results for isotropic and anisotropic materials in elasticity theory and classical theory. Furthermore, real-world applications are discussed, considering stress and displacement fields in real anisotropic materials such as TiSi2 single crystals and orthotropic materials, which are special cases of anisotropic materials like wood and epoxy as documented in the literature.