Nonlinear deflection analysis of CNT/magneto-electro-elastic smart shells under multi-physics loading

Abstract

In this article, a first attempt has been made to address the nonlinear deflection problem of magneto-electro-elastic shells reinforced with carbon nanotubes subjected to multiphysics loads like mechanical, electric and magnetic loads. In this regard, a mathematical model based on higher-order shell theory, von-Karman’s nonlinearity is derived using finite element platform. The true flexural behavior of the functionally graded carbon nanotube reinforced magneto-electro-elastic shell under the action of individual/combined multiphysics loading is captured through higher-order nonlinear terms. Meanwhile, the results of this article emphasize on understanding the influence of coupling fields in conjunction with material and geometrical parameters on the deflection of functionally graded carbon nanotube reinforced magneto-electro-elastic shells. In addition, the study provides an intensive and meticulous insight into the deflection of curved shells with respect to different shell geometry, carbon nanotube distributions, carbon nanotube volume fractions, aspect ratio, thickness ratio, shallowness ratio, and electro-magnetic loads. The study is believed to pave way for extensive further studies on these classes of materials which can prove to be instrumental in various avenues of aerospace research and development.