Finite element analysis of functionally graded plates for coupling effect of extension and bending

In this paper, the coupling effect of extension and bending in functionally graded plate subjected to transverse loading for Kirchhoff-Love plate theory equations is studied. The material properties of the FG plates are assumed to vary continuously throughout the thickness direction of the layer according to sigmoid distribution of the volume fractions of constituents. The two plate functionals are used which are developed by Gâteaux differential and potential operator concept. A layer wise, isoparametric, mixed finite element approach was used and results of two different quadrilateral elements, one considering the membrane forces and the other one not, were compared by an analytical study. Finally, for different composition profiles the effect of variations of the Young's moduli and of variations volume fraction index to dimensionless displacement, strain and stress values are studied.