Finite-element buckling analysis of functionally graded GPL-reinforced composite plates with a circular hole

The main purpose of this study is the buckling analysis of functionally graded graphene platelets-reinforced composite (GPL-RC) rectangular plates with a circular hole using the finite-element (FE) method. The modified Halpin-Tsai micromechanical scheme is performed to obtain the effective properties. The buckling analysis of functionally graded GPL-RC plate is modeled by the use of the first-order shear deformation plate theory (FSDPT). Employing the minimum total potential energy principle and FE approach along with isoparametric formulation, the eigenvalue buckling equations are obtained. The in-house finite-element code via MATLAB environment is developed to model the problem. Various numerical results are reported to examine the effects of the geometry of plate, weight fractions and distribution patterns of GPLs on the buckling loads. It is found that the functional distribution of GPL improves the stability of the GPL-RC plate and increases the buckling load. Communicated by Corina Sandu.