Bending analysis of thick functionally graded piezoelectric rectangular plates using higher-order shear and normal deformable plate theory

Abstract

In this paper, bending-stretching analysis of thick functionally graded piezoelectric rectangular plates is studied using the higher-order shear and normal deformable plate theory. On the basis of this theory, Legendre polynomials are used for approximating the components of displacement field. Also, the effects of both normal and shear deformations are encountered in the theory. The governing equations are derived using the principle of virtual work and variational approach. It is assumed that plate is made of piezoelectric materials with functionally graded distribution of material properties. Hence, exponential function is used to modify mechanical and electrical properties through the thickness of the plate. Finally, the effect of material properties, electrical boundary conditions and dimensions are investigated on the static response of plate. Also, it is shown that results of the presented model are close to the three dimensional elasticity solutions.