Buckling analysis of rectangular plates composed of functionally graded materials subjected to uniaxial and biaxial compression loading

Abstract

In this article, we investigate the buckling analysis of plates that are made of functionally graded materials (FGMs). Using a four-variable refined plate theory, both a variation of the transverse shear strains across the thickness and the zero traction boundary conditions on the top and bottom surfaces of the plate are satisfied without using shear correction factors. Governing equations are obtained from the principle of virtual works. The mechanical critical buckling exposed to different load conditions is determined. After such verifications, the effects of parameters such as the plate aspect ratio, side-to-thickness ratio and gradient index on the critical buckling are explained and illustrated. Numerical examples of the buckling analysis of functionally graded plates demonstrate the accuracy of the present theory.