Buckling analysis of functionally graded beams with periodic nanostructures using doublet mechanics theory

Buckling analysis of functionally graded (FG) nanobeams is examined using doublet mechanics theory. The material properties of FG nanobeams change with the thickness coordinate. A periodic nanostructure model is considered in FG nanobeams which has a simple crystal square lattice type and Euler–Bernoulli beam theory is used in the formulation. Softening or hardening material behaviour has been observed by changing chiral angle of the considered FG periodic nanobeams in the present doublet mechanics theory. Unlike other size dependent theories such as nonlocal stress gradient elasticity theory, couple stress theory, strain gradient theory, this mechanical response (softening or hardening) is seen for the first time in doublet mechanics theory. Mechanical material responses are directly affected by the atomic structure of the considered material in the doublet mechanics theory. Firstly, micro-stress and micro-strain relations are obtained for the considered nanostructure model in doublet mechanics theory. Then, these microequations are transformed to macroequations in the present doublet mechanics theory. Thus, more physical and accurate mechanical results can be obtained in nanostructures using the doublet mechanics theory. After developing the mathematical formulations of FG periodic nanobeams, Ritz method is applied to obtain the critical buckling loads for different boundary conditions. Comparison of example studies with the present doublet mechanics model is presented for verification, and effects of chiral angle on stability response of periodic FG nanobeams are discussed.