Non-linear thermo-elastic response of symmetric cross-ply laminated composite conical panels with temperature dependent material properties

Abstract

Non-linear thermo-elastic response characteristics of laminated composite conical panels with temperature dependent material properties are studied employing finite element approach based on first-order shear deformation theory and field consistency principle. The non-linear governing equations are solved using Newton-Raphson iterative technique coupled with the adaptive displacement control method to trace equilibrium path. Validation of the formulation for mechanical and thermal loading cases is carried out. Present study is carried out for thermal/thermo-mechanical loading with degradation of material properties. Parametric study is carried out to highlight the influence of semi-cone angle, length-to-radius ratio, radius-to-thickness ratio, and boundary conditions on the non-linear thermo-elastic response of laminated cylindrical and conical panels.