Anisotropic functionally graded nano-beam models and closed-form solutions in plane gradient elasticity

This study delves into the investigation of exact analytical solutions for the plane stress and displacement fields within linear homogeneous anisotropic nano-beam models of gradient elasticity. It focuses on solving the Helmholtz equation, which encompasses a second-order non-homogeneous linear partial differential equation in plane gradient elasticity theory, utilizing polynomial series-type solutions. The analysis centers on the utilization of gradient Airy stress functions to derive stress fields in the gradient theory. The research yields closed-form analytical solutions for Airy stress functions, stress, and strain fields in both classical and gradient theories. The study considers five distinct types of two-dimensional functionally graded cantilever beams with various boundary conditions: a cantilever anisotropic nano-beam subjected to a concentrated force at the free end, a cantilever anisotropic nano-beam under a uniform load, a simple anisotropic nano-beam under a uniform load, a propped cantilever anisotropic nano-beam under a uniform load, and a fixed end cantilever anisotropic nano-beam under a uniform load. General analytical solutions for the gradient stress and displacement fields of two-dimensional and one-dimensional anisotropic nano-beams under different boundary conditions are provided. The study showcases significant strain gradient size effects at the nano-scale through the derived analytical solutions for anisotropic beams. Additionally, it demonstrates that the strain gradient theory results for the limit case of the gradient coefficient c precisely align with results for isotropic and anisotropic materials in elasticity theory and classical theory. Furthermore, real-world applications are discussed, considering stress and displacement fields in real anisotropic materials such as TiSi₂ single crystals and orthotropic materials, which are special cases of anisotropic materials like wood and epoxy as documented in the literature.