First Shear Deformation Theory Research Articles

The Nonlinear Bending of Sector Nanoplate via Higher-Order Shear Deformation Theory and Nonlocal Strain Gradient Theory

In this context, the nonlinear bending investigation of a sector nanoplate on the elastic foundation is carried out with the aid of the nonlocal strain gradient theory. The governing relations of the graphene plate are derived based on the higher-order shear deformation theory (HSDT) and considering von Karman nonlinear strains. Contrary to the first shear deformation theory (FSDT), HSDT offers an acceptable distribution for shear stress along the thickness and removes the defects of FSDT by presenting acceptable precision without a shear correction parameter. Since the governing equations are two-dimensional and partial differential, the extended Kantorovich method (EKM) and differential quadrature (DQM) have been used to solve the equations. Furthermore, the numeric outcomes were compared with a reference, which shows good harmony between them. Eventually, the effects of small-scale parameters, load, boundary conditions, geometric dimensions, and elastic foundations are studied on maximum nondimensional deflection. It can be concluded that small-scale parameters influence the deflection of the sector nanoplate significantly.

An analytical study on low velocity impact resistance behaviors of general bio‐inspired helicoidal composite plates

AbstractThrough evolutionary processes, helicoidal structures have been proven to exhibit exceptional load‐carrying capacity and impact resistance performance. To date, extensive experimental and numerical studies have been carried out on their impact behaviors, while few relevant analytical studies have been reported even though it is urgently needed for the preliminary assessment of structure design and optimization. In this work, based on the first shear deformation theory (FSDT) and the improved linearized Hertzian contact method, an analytical model for low velocity impact (LVI) performances of helicoidal laminates with arbitrary layups is developed. Therein, the post‐impact damage is taken into account according to continuum damage mechanics (CDM). Comparisons of load‐carrying capacity and energy‐absorbed performance between the proposed model prediction and the existing experimental data\numerical results have been made for verification. Besides, LVI behaviors of conventional laminates with unidirectional distribution andcross‐ply arrangement are discussed. Moreover, the role of rotation angle, impact velocity and the plate dimension on helicoidal laminates' LVI performances are analyzed quantitatively. There is evidence that helical layouts are better able to absorb energy and delay the in‐plane damage.Highlights The LVI responses of bio‐inspired single‐helicoidal (SH) and double‐helicoidal (DH) composite laminate are studied. An effective model to predict the LVI responses considered the post‐impact damage is developed. A comparison of the LVI performance of single‐helicoidal structures with various lay‐up schemes is carried out. DH structure has better low velocity impact resistance than SH structure when the rotation angle shares the same.

An improved FSDT with an efficient mesh-free approach for nonlinear static analysis of FG-GOPRC beams

The aim of this paper is to enhance the First Shear Deformation Theory (FSDT) beam and apply it to investigate the linear and nonlinear static bending behavior of beams containing functionally graded graphene oxide powder-reinforced composite (FG-GOPRC). In this study, we propose an improvement to the FSDT by utilizing a high-order mesh-free approach. Unlike some existing FSDT methods, our proposed study uses a nonlinear shear deformation term coupling, which is crucial to illustrate the effect of nonlinear cases of various boundary conditions under a strong formulation, even without selective or reduced integration, resulting in lower computation costs. Using the principle of minimum potential energy, the governing equations are rewritten in a matrix–vector strong form and discretized using the Radial Point Interpolation Method with variable shape parameter (VS-RPIM) and linearized using a High Order Path Following Techniques (HOPFT). To account for the behavior of GOPRC, we utilized the modified Halpin–Tsai model to estimate the effective Young’s modulus, while the rule of mixture was employed to determine the effective Poisson’s ratio. Furthermore, the weight fractions of the graphene oxide powder (GOP) vary continuously through the thickness direction of the composite beams. To validate the proposed numerical model, we provide various comparison studies to demonstrate its robustness and accuracy. Additionally, we conduct parametric studies to examine the effects of different parameters, such as length-to-thickness ratio, GOP distribution patterns, weight fraction, and size of GOP, types of loads, and boundary conditions on the nonlinear bending behavior of FG-GOPRC beams. We also investigate the neglected term in some literature, which is of interest in our study. In summary, this paper proposes an enhanced FSDT to investigate the nonlinear static behavior of FG-GOPRC beams. The proposed model is validated through various comparison studies and parametric analyses, demonstrating its robustness and accuracy. Our study provides useful insights into the nonlinear bending behavior of FG-GOPRC beams and highlights the importance of nonlinear shear deformation term coupling.

Nonlinear two-dimensional transient thermoelastic analysis of functionally graded composite plates subjected to localised cooling loads

In this study, for the first time, localized thermal cooling is considered for the transient thermoelastic response of an axisymmetric plate, addressing the underexplored area of localized low-temperature thermoelasticity. Functionally graded composite plates are analyzed which consist of a mixture of stainless steel (SUS304) and low-carbon steel (AISI1020). A two-dimensional transient heat conduction equation is employed to capture localized cooling effects, featuring various adaptive time-dependent thermal boundary conditions which mirror both loading and unloading scenarios, effectively simulating real-world phenomena. Novel parameters are introduced to facilitate a comprehensive understanding of various aspects of thermal load handling and their impact on thermoelastic responses. The heat conduction equations are solved using the Generalized Differential Quadrature Method (GDQM) and the Crank-Nicolson scheme. The nonlinear governing equations, incorporating geometrical nonlinearity through the von Kármán assumption within the First Shear Deformation Theory (FSDT) framework, are solved using the GDQM and the Picard's technique. The model is validated using Finite Element Method (FEM) through Abaqus. A comprehensive analysis is provided that considers influence of the ratio of thermally affected and unaffected plate surface, thermal load magnitude, rapidity of thermal loading and unloading, duration of the cooling load, geometrical nonlinearity, and temperature dependence of material. The study shows that the maximum von Mises stress within the structure remains consistent regardless of the duration of the cooling load, as long as the rate at which the cooling load is applied stays the same. Additionally, the findings reveal that even minor localized thermal loads can produce substantial stress, especially at the intersection of thermally affected and non-affected zones on the exposed surface in some situations.

Free oscillations of porous multi-graded graphene oxide nanocomposites coupled hemispherical-cylindrical shell-configuration structures under various edge constraints

Quantitative investigations of the vibrational characteristics coupled hemispherical-cylindrical shells (CHSCSs) formed of three types, including of porous, nanocomposite, and porous nanocomposite, under various edge conditions are carried out here: (1) a matrix strengthened by graded graphene oxide powder (GOP), (2) a matrix with the effects of the porosity, and (3) a matrix strengthened by multi-graded GOP with the porosity characteristic. To modify the vibrational characteristics of the nanocomposite, nine different functionally graded models are evaluated for GOP distribution within the matrix and CHSCS thickness. The Halpin-Tsai homogenization formula is used to compute the GOP nanocomposite (GOPN) material's mechanical characteristics. Addedly, a functionally graded type of the effect of the porosity is used. The CHSCS equations may be derived from Donnell's theory as well as from the first shear deformation theory (FSDT). The governing equations of the CHSCSs are determined using variation calculation, named Hamilton's principle. After that, this equation system is built using the generalized differential quadrature method (GDQM). The frequencies used as benchmarks are compared to those produced here to test the system. Remarkably, the lowest frequencies of the CHSCS made of pure matrix and multi functionally graded GOPN were decreased for all BCs by extending the value of the porosity factor. In addition, by increasing the value of the porosity factor for all BCs, the porous FGÓ-GOPN CHSCS had the greatest variation related to decreasing the minimum frequencies.

Vibrational features of graphene oxide powder nanocomposite coupled conical-cylindrical shells applicable for aerospace structures under various boundary conditions

Overcoming the challenging circumstances encountered in aerospace components has led to the widespread use of small-scale reinforcements to improve structure-related performance. Accordingly, the vibrational properties of coupled conical-cylindrical shells (CCCSs) made of a matrix material reinforced by functionally graded graphene oxide powder (FGGOP) are numerically investigated under various boundary conditions (BCs) in this paper. To enhance the vibrational feature of the CCCS reinforced by graphene oxide powder (GOP), three models are measured regarding distribution related to this small-scaled material within the polymer along with the thickness related to the CCCS. The Halpin-Tsai homogenization form is also employed to develop the mechanical values associated with the GOP-nanocomposite materials. The main equations related to the CCCSs are obtained by joining Donnell's theory and the first shear deformation theory (FSDT). Additionally, using variation calculation (Hamilton's principle), the motion equations (MEs) of the CCCS reinforced by FGGOP are determined. Then, the generalized differential quadrature method (GDQM) is utilized to produce the system related to the MEs. Next, standard eigenvalue determination obtains the frequencies of the CCCS made of the FGGOP-nanocomposite. Finally, the frequencies of various benchmarks are compared with those determined here to validate the proposed scheme. Also, more than a few new and interesting samples are designed and solved numerically to indicate the impacts of the GOP, geometrical values, and various BCs on the vibration responses of the CCCS made of GOP-nanocomposite. Remarkably, this paper is the first evaluation related to the free vibration of the coupled conical-cylindrical shells reinforced by FGGOP under different BCs.

Vibrational characteristic simulations regarding connecting two different semi-spheroidal shells and a full-spheroidal shell with a conical shell categorized in underwater structures

Recently, the related structures of marine, underwater, and ocean structures, covering, ice-breaking devices, riser pipes, ballast water gears, gliders, and underwear noise migrations, can be counted by Connected Shells (CSs). Accordingly, for the first time, the investigation related to vibration outputs associated with connecting two different semi-spheroidal shells and a full-spheroidal shell with a conical shell, namely Connected Spheroidal-Conical Shell Assembly (CSCSA) organized in three assembly groups is examined here. In detail, General Shell Hypothesis (GSH) and the First Shear Deformation Theory (FSDT) are connected to find the main formulations of the CSCSAs' shell elements. Addedly, the Motion Governing Differential Equations (MGDEs) associated with each shell element related to the CSCSAs are identified as implementing Hamilton's principle. Addedly, the MGDEs associated with the CSCSA components are discretized, realizing the Generalized Differential Quadrature Method (GDQM). Thereafter, the Natural Frequency Factors (NFFs) of the CSCSAs are determined by implementing the eigenvalue determination. Also, the NFFs measured by the suggested context are linked to the NFFs determined using classical FEM-constructed commercial software to validate the provided approach since previous research has not been conducted on these structures in the literature (except one type related to the CSCSAs). More importantly, the largest observed inaccuracy is less than 1%. Consistent with this, the responses of this investigation may be operated as the benchmark. Finally, the impacts of the geometrical parameters connected to the CSCSAs on the NFFs of the structure are identified via the design and solution of original cases.

Bifurcation Point Analysis of a Magnetostrictive Sandwich Composite Plate Subjected to Magnetic Field and Axial Force

This article studies parametric vibration and dynamic instability of a rectangular and symmetric magnetostrictive sandwich composite plate (MSCP) on a visco-Pasternak medium. The MSCP consists of three layers; a magnetostrictive layer considers the core and composites as its upper and lower faces. The MSCP subjected to temperature change, parametrically exciting force, and magnetic load is studied with consideration to geometrical von Karman nonlinearity. Based on the energy method and first shear deformation theory (FSDT), Hamilton’s principle is used to achieve the system’s governing equations and boundary conditions. In the next step, the partial differential equation is transformed into ordinary differential equations by applying the Galerkin technique. Then the equation of motion is solved using the multiple-scale method. Numerical results illustrate the stability of the sandwich plate is significantly related to the magnetostrictive parameters. In addition, the effects of significant parameters, such as the effect of amplitude response and parametric excitation or detuning parameter, coupled with the effect of foundation, thickness ratio, aspect ratio, and temperature increment on vibration characteristics, bifurcation points behavior and stability of the systems are charted, plotted and discussed. The innovation of this article is the use of magnetostrictive material in sandwich plates and the development of its mathematical relationships. It is anticipated that the results of this research can contribute to the development of future smart structural applications subjected to in-plane axial forces.

Three-Dimensional Thermo-Mechanical Elastic Analysis of Functionally Graded Five Layers Composite Sandwich Plate on Winkler Foundations

In this work, the first shear deformation theory (FSDT) is used for the thermo-mechanical analysis of a simply supported five-layer functionally Graded (FG) sandwich plate resting on a Winkler elastic foundation. The sandwich plate consists of five layers (two functionally graded face sheets (AL−AL2O3), with aluminum (Al) as the metal and Alumina (AL2O3) as ceramic phases. Two vinyl ester adhesive layers bond the face sheets to an Elastollan core. The governing equations are obtained using the principle of virtual displacements. A uniform distributed load q with constant magnitude is applied on the top face sheet while all layers experience a steady temperature equal to T. We adapted layerwise theory (LT) to solve each layer’s stress distribution. Navier solution is employed to produce the semi-analytical solution results, which are compared with those of three-dimensional finite element analysis obtained by ABAQUS software. A parametric study is presented to observe the effect of the material gradation, variation in plate dimensions, variation in the thermo-mechanical load, and elastic foundation on the deflections and stresses in the functionally graded sandwich plate. For a composite sandwich plate with mechanical load, in the absence of thermal load, results of the first-order shear layer theory obtained by using the Navire method are relatively good in comparison to the normal stresses obtained for investigated points, which are obtained by finite element.

Improvement of vibrational characteristics of multipurpose structures (plate and shells) used in aerospace components by deploying Graphene Oxide Powders (GOPs) in a matrix as a nano-reinforcement: A comprehensive study

Recently, nano-reinforcements have been extensively implemented to enhance performance related to the structures due to overcoming the complex conditions faced in various facilities, such as aerospace components. For this reason, one of the novel nano-reinforcement named Graphene Oxide Powders (GOPs), counted as graphene-derived nano-reinforcements, is implemented here to upgrade vibrational performances related to structures. Based on this, 11 multipurpose structures, comprising Semispherical (SS), Spherical (S), Semielliptical (SM), Elliptical (E), Hyperboloidal (H), Paraboloidal (P), Conical (CO), and Cylindrical (CY) shells and Annular plate (AP) reinforced by GOPs are vibrationally investigated here. Accordingly, the Halpin-Tsai Homogenization Approach (HTHA) and the rule of the mixture are employed to characterize the GOP's mechanical factors. In addition, the General Shell Scheme (GSS) and the First Shear Deformation Theory (FSDT) are applied to discover the fundamental relationships associated with the structures. Next, Hamilton's principle determines the Differential Motion Equations (DMEs) corresponding to structures. Followingly, the well-characterized mesh reduction procedure titled the Generalized Differential Quadrature Method (GDQM) is implemented to discretize the structures’ DMEs. Subsequently, the Natural Frequencies Indicators (NFIs) are mined by managing the eigenvalues evaluation. Because this examination involves an investigation related to multiple structures and can count as a comprehensive study and benchmark solution for future works, FEM-based simulation (only for validation study) is used to validate and confirm the present framework. In the end, multiple examples are designed and calculated to indicate the effects of the mass fractions and distribution patterns related to the GOPs on the NFIs related to the mentioned multipurpose structures.

Large deformation nonlinear bending analysis of multilayer functionally graded graphene-reinforced skew microplate under mechanical and thermal loads using FSDT and MCST

ABSTRACT In this paper large deformation of the skew microplate made of laminated composite enhanced with graphene nanosheets is investigated using first shear deformation theory (FSDT) when the plate undergoes combination of mechanical and thermal loads. Halpin-Tsai model is utilised to model mechanical properties while for thermal properties Schapery model is considered. First, shear deformation of the plate was obtained while using Green-Lagrange tensor the non-linear strain of the microplate is extracted using the von-Karman assumptions. Then, by Modified Coupled Stress Theory (MCSD), the components of Cauchy and Couple stress tensors are specified. Finally, using Hamilton Principle the governing equation of the microplate and boundary conditions are computed. After deriving analytical governmental equation results are presented for the simple support boundary condition and the proposed model is validated by previously reported data and it proves to be promising. Primary results showed that with raising skew angle deflection and bending moment decreases which means microplate becomes more rigid in higher skew angles. Higher mechanical loads lead to higher deflections and bending moments. Four different configurations of the layers were analysed from which angle-ply configuration possessed highest deflection and bending while UD configuration revealed the lowest values of deflection and bending moment.

On the vibrational analysis of combined paraboloidal-conical air vehicle segment shell-type structures

For the first time, the analysis of the free vibration performance related to the Combined Paraboloidal-Conical Shell (CPCS) structures is evaluated in this paper. To support, the First Shear Deformation Theory (FSDT) and General Shell Hypothesis (GSH) are involved in discovering the primary relationships related to the CPCS's shell segments. In addition, Hamilton's tactic determines the Governing Differential Motion Equations (GDMEs) affiliated with each shell segment of the CPCS. Further, the well-structured technique labeled the Generalized Differential Quadrature (GDQ) procedure is implemented to discretize the GDMEs. Furthermore, the eigenvalue determination is employed to derive the Natural Frequency Parameters (NFPs) of the CPCS structures. Additionally, because no study has been engaged in this structure in the literature, the NFPs measured by the proposed framework are contrasted with the NFPs found by FEM-based commercial software to credit the submitted methodology. In addition, the maximum error is observed to be equal to less than 0.5%. Based on this, the outputs of this paper can be used as the benchmark. Ultimately, by planning and solving novel examples, the effects of the geometry characteristics related to the CPCS are determined on the NFPs of the structure.

Free-damped vibration analysis of Graphene Nano-Platelet nanocomposite Joined Conical-Conical-Cylindrical Shell marine-like structures

The oncoming paper analyzes the Natural frequency (NF) of the most purposeful structures in ocean engineering as submerged, offshore, marine structures, gliders bodies, and shaft cowls labeled Joined Conical-Conical-Cylindrical Shell (JCCCS) structure. For this aim, 30 various geometry types related to the JCCCS structures are investigated in this work. In addition, Graphene Nano-Platelet (GNP) is applied to make a GNP-Nanocomposite (GNPN) material and enhance the vibrational performance associated with the JCCCS. For this purpose, Halpin-Tsai and the rule of mixture hypotheses are realized to discover the mechanical marks related to the GNPN. To access the core relationships associated with the JCCCS structures, the First Shear Deformation Theory (FSDT) and Donnell's simplifications are employed. Furthermore, Hamilton's scheme is involved determining the Differential Motion Equations (DMEs) coupled with the JCCCS structures. Also, the well-organized and distinguished technique branded the Generalized Differential Quadrature (GDQ) strategy is selected to discretize DMEs related to the JCCCS structures. The standard eigenvalues technique is organized to access the NFs related to the JCCCS structure. The NFs determined from the following method are compared to FE-based NFs related to the JCCCS structures to verify the upcoming procedure. Afterward, numerous novel examples are solved, which can be used as benchmarks to illustrate the various geometrical and material features and Boundary Conditions (BCs) on the NFs coupled with the isotropic-JCCCS and GNPN-JCCCS structures.

Buckling resistance of joined composite sandwich conical–cylindrical​ shells with lattice core under lateral pressure

The main impetus of the present study is to investigate the buckling analysis of joined composite sandwich conical–cylindrical shells with reinforced lattice core subjected to external pressure via numerical and analytical approaches. The equivalent stiffness parameters of the lattice core have been determined by using an effective smeared technique and then superimposed with those of the skins in order to achieve the stiffness parameters of the whole structure. The theoretical formulation has been established based on the first-shear deformation theory and applying continuity conditions. Using power series technique, a highly accurate solution has been provided for evaluating the buckling load of the sandwich conical–cylindrical shells. The sandwich structures are made of two skins (inner and outer) and a middle lattice core composed of helical stiffeners. In addition, finite element analysis has been performed for validating the analytical model. Furthermore, the influences of several important design variables on the buckling characteristics have been investigated.

Effect of boundary condition and variable shell thickness on the vibration behavior of grid-stiffened composite conical shells

In this research, it is aimed to investigate the effect of boundary condition and variable shell thickness on the vibration behavior of grid-stiffened composite conical shells. In order to fabricate the stiffeners and shell for the experimental study, continuous and woven glass fibers have been used during a filament winding process, respectively. Due to the non-uniform distribution of the stiffeners in a stiffened conical shell, the equivalent thickness varies along the longitudinal axis. The stiffener and shell structures have been reduced into an equivalent shell using smeared method. The governing equations have been solved in order to evaluate the natural frequencies of the grid-stiffened conical shell by the use of first-shear deformation theory (FSDT) along with the power series method. In order to validate the analytical solutions, an experimental modal analysis have been carried out on a real grid-stiffened composite conical shell with uniform shell thickness. In addition, the finite element solution has been provided for further validations. Furthermore, the effects of various geometric parameters, variable shell thickness and boundary conditions have been discussed.

Optimization of Free Vibration and Flutter Analysis of Composite Plates Using a Coupled Method of Genetic Algorithm and Generalized Differential Quadrature

In this study, the optimization of free vibration and flutter analysis of a composite plate with the implementation of different boundary conditions is investigated. The governing equations of a composite plate are obtained using the first shear deformation theory (FSDT) of plates. The first-order piston theory is utilized to simulate aerodynamic loads, including arbitrary yaw angle over the panel area. The coupled method of genetic algorithm with well-known generalized differential quadrature (GDQ) method is then developed to obtain optimal layup, which led to maximum fundamental frequency and optimized critical flutter aerodynamic pressure. To achieve this aim, the free vibration and flutter analysis of a composite plate will be conducted via the obtained eigenvalue problem by establishing the discretized governing equations and applying boundary conditions. The obtained results are compared and validated with the available results in the literature, which show high accuracy and a fast rate of convergence. Also, the influence of changing in the yaw angle, number of layers, thickness-to-length ratio, boundary conditions and turning symmetric layup to asymmetric layup is studied.

Deflections, stresses and free vibration studies of FG-CNT reinforced sandwich plates resting on Pasternak elastic foundation

The present study covenants with the static and free vibration behavior of nanocomposite sandwich plates reinforced by carbon nanotubes resting on Pasternak elastic foundation. Uniformly distributed (UD-CNT) and functionally graded (FG-CNT) distributions of aligned carbon nanotube are considered for two types of sandwich plates such as, the face sheet reinforced and homogeneous core and the homogeneous face sheet and reinforced core. Based on the first shear deformation theory (FSDT), the Hamilton\'s principle is employed to derive the mathematical models. The obtained solutions are numerically validated by comparison with some available cases in the literature. The elastic foundation model is assumed as one parameter Winkler - Pasternak foundation. A parametric study is conducted to study the effects of aspect ratios, foundation parameters, carbon nanotube volume fraction, types of reinforcement, core-to-face sheet thickness ratio and types of loads acting on the bending and free vibration analyses. It is explicitly shown that the (FG-CNT) face sheet reinforced sandwich plate has a high resistance against deflections compared to other types of reinforcement. It is also revealed that the reduction in the dimensionless natural frequency is most pronounced in core reinforced sandwich plate.

Nonlinear vibration of thick multi-scale composite doubly curved shells

ABSTRACT: In this paper, the large amplitude vibration of moderately thick three-phase multi-scale composite doubly curved shells is investigated. The epoxy resin is enriched by carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and the E-glass fibers are embedded in the reinforcement matrix. The effective materials properties are predicted by combination of Halpin-Tsai relation and micromechanics approach. The von Kármán geometric nonlinearities terms and first-shear deformation theory are employed to obtain the governing equations. Galerkine’s method is used to reduce the coupled governing equations to an ordinary nonlinear differential equation. The first-order analytical approximate and periodic solution is derived by homotopy perturbation method (HPM). The results include the effect of CNTs weight percentage, CNTs aspect ratio and vibration amplitude on nonlinear frequency of multi-scale composite doubly curved shells.

Dynamic and buckling analysis of polymer hybrid composite beam with variable thickness

This work deals with a study of the dynamic and buckling analysis of polymer hybrid composite (PHC) beam. The beam has variable thickness and is reinforced by carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and nanoclay (NC) simultaneously. The governing equations are derived based on the first shear deformation theory (FSDT). A three-phase Halpin-Tsai approach is used to predict the mechanical properties of the PHC. We focus our attention on the effect of the simultaneous addition of NC and CNT on the vibration and buckling analysis of the PHC beam with variable thickness. Also a comparison study is done on the sensation of three impressive parameters including CNT, NC weight fractions, and the shape factor of fillers on the mechanical properties of PHC beams, as well as fundamental frequencies of free vibrations and critical buckling load. The results show that the increase of shape factor value, NC, and CNT weight fractions leads to considerable reinforcement in mechanical properties as well as increase of the dimensionless fundamental frequency and buckling load. The variation of CNT weight fraction on elastic modulus is more sensitive rather than shear modulus but the effect of NC weight fraction on elastic and shear moduli is fairly the same. The shape factor values more than the medium level do not affect the mechanical properties.

An efficient ABAQUS solid shell element implementation for low velocity impact analysis of FGM plates

The main objective of this paper is to develop a numerical model susceptible to solve the numerical locking problems that may appear when applying the conventional solid and shell finite elements of ABAQUS. This model is based on a hexahedral solid shell element. The formulation of this element relays on the combination of the enhanced assumed strain (EAS) and assumed natural strain (ANS) methods with modified First Shear Deformation Theory (FSDT). The developed element is implemented into the ABAQUS user element (UEL) interface. The performance of this element is demonstrated by different benchmark tests from the literature. Our contribution consists on applying a single solid shell element through the thickness direction to predict the low velocity impact behavior on functionally graded material (FGM) circular plates.