Buckling behavior analysis of hybrid-honeycomb sandwich cylindrical shells

Abstract

In this research, the buckling behavior of hybrid-honeycomb sandwich (HHS) cylindrical shells under hydrostatic pressure is investigated. The HHS shells consist of two thin ceramic-metal functionally graded (FG) layers on the outer and inner surfaces, and a layer of lightweight, high-strength, low-density hybrid-honeycomb material in the center, with a thickness that is larger compared to the FG layers. The ceramic composition of the FG layers covers the entire outer surface of the cylindrical shells, which is intended to improve the performance of structures in highly corrosive and acidic environments, such as the ocean, and in other mining and metallurgical industries. The hybrid-honeycomb core has a negative Poisson's ratio, also called as auxetic materials, which have a unique microstructure that can affect the buckling behavior of cylindrical shells made from these materials, resulting in improved buckling resistance, stability, and enhanced energy absorption. Using classical shell theory, the governing equations for the buckling behavior problem are derived, and the critical buckling loads are then gained using the Galerkin solution. The results of the present study are validated through comparison with existing literature, and numerous numerical examples are conducted to showcase the interesting results of the study with various material and geometric parameters.