Non-linear buckling analysis of functionally graded shallow spherical shells

Abstract

In the present paper the non-linear buckling analysis of functionally graded spherical shells subjected to external pressure is investigated. The material properties are graded in the thickness direction according to the power-law distribution in terms of volume fractions of the constituents of the material. In the formulation of governing equations geometric non-linearity in all strain-displacement relations of the shell is considered. Using Bubnov-Galerkin's method to solve the problem an approximated analytical expression of non-linear buckling loads of functionally graded spherical shells is obtained, that allows easily to investigate stability behaviors of the shell.