Finite homogeneous deformations of symmetrically loaded compressible membranes

The equilibrium problem of nonlinear, isotropic and hyperelastic square membranes, stretched by a double symmetric system of dead loads, is investigated. Depending on the form of the stored energy function, the problem considered may admit asymmetric solutions in addition to the expected symmetric solutions. For compressible materials, the mathematical condition allowing the computation of these asymmetric solutions is given. Moreover, explicit expressions for evaluating critical loads and bifurcation points are derived. Results and basic relations obtained for general isotropic materials are then specialized for a compressible Mooney–Rivlin material and a broad numerical analysis is performed. The qualitatively more interesting branches of asymmetric equilibrium are shown and the influence of the material parameters is discussed. Finally, using the energy criterion, some stability considerations are made.