Volume fraction optimization of functionally graded composite panels for stress reduction and critical temperature

The volume fraction optimization of functionally graded (FG) composite panels is studied by considering stress reduction and thermo-mechanical buckling. The structure is made up of ceramic layer, functionally graded materials (FGMs) and metal layer. Material properties are assumed as temperature dependent, and continuously varying in the thickness direction according to a simple power-law distribution in terms of the ceramic and metal volume fractions in FGMs. The 3-D finite element model is adopted for modeling of material properties and temperature fields in the structure. For the various FGM thickness ratios and volume fraction distributions, mechanical stress analysis and thermo-mechanical buckling analysis are performed. Based on the results, the optimal designs of FGMs panels are investigated for stress reduction and improving thermo-mechanical buckling behavior. (c) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.