Dynamic stability of CNTs-reinforced non-uniform composite beams under axial excitation loading

Abstract

This paper presents an analytical study on the dynamic stability of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) reinforced functionally graded composite beams when subjected to axial excitation loading. The composite beams are functionally graded using a I-type CNTs reinforcement. The section properties of the non-uniform functionally graded composite beams are assessed using Halpin–Tsai model. The analysis of dynamic stability of the composite beams is performed by using Bolotin's method. Analytical expressions of determining free vibration frequency, critical buckling load, and excitation frequency of the non-uniform functionally graded composite beams are derived, in which both the shear deformation and rotary inertia effects are considered. The study demonstrates that the dynamic stability of the beam can be improved significantly when it is functionally graded using the I-type CNTs reinforcement.