Vibration and stability of functionally graded plates based on a higher-order deformation theory

Abstract

In this article, the governing equations of motion for a functionally graded material plate (FGP) based on a higher-order deformation theory in a general state of non-uniform initial stress are derived. The properties of FGP are assumed varied continuously along the thickness of the plate, according to a simple power law of volume fractions of constituents. With the derived governing equations, the natural frequencies and buckling loads of ceramic-FGM-metal plates subjected to an initial stress are investigated. The initial stress is taken to be a combination of a uniaxial extensional stress and a pure bending stress. A ceramic-FGM-metal plate can become an all-FGM, all-ceramic plate, or all-metal plate by modifying the value of material parameter and volume fraction index. The effects of various parameters and initial stresses on the natural frequencies and buckling loads of FGPs are studied. © SAGE Publications 2009.