Buckling analysis of nanocomposite beams based on refined beam theory by considering the Agglomeration effect of CNTs

Abstract

The present work deals with buckling load behavior of nanocomposite beams by considering the agglomeration effect of single-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and different patterns CNTs in polymeric matrix. The material properties of nanocomposite beams are estimated using the Eshelby–Mori– Tanaka approach based on an equivalent fiber. The equations of motion are derived based on refined beam strain gradient theory, employing Hamilton’s principle and using Differential Quadrature Finite Element Method (DQFEM) derived from the differential quadrature method (DQM). The results are compared with analytical results in the literature. It is remarked that mechanical properties and therefore critical buckling loads of nanocomposite beam are seriously affected by CNTs agglomeration.