article · Mechanics Based Design of Structures and Machines
Free vibration and modal stresses in functionally graded single-walled carbon nanotube-reinforced composite beams were examined under combined heat and moisture conditions. The investigation utilised a finite element formulation of higher-order zigzag theory alongside Hamilton's principle to evaluate five distinct carbon nanotube gradation profiles. Material properties varied with both temperature and moisture levels, assuming uniform distribution across beam thickness. Across the first six vibration modes, stresses associated with higher modes exhibited greater sensitivity to thermal and moisture variations than fundamental mode stresses. Furthermore, the overall nature of internal stress distributions depended heavily on the specific grading pattern used, combined with ambient moisture and thermal exposure. Among the configurations analysed, the FG-O beam design demonstrated the lowest sensitivity to thermal environments, while the FG-X configuration displayed the highest sensitivity.
Advanced composite structures operating in harsh environments must endure fluctuations in both heat and humidity. Understanding how differing carbon nanotube distributions alter structural vibrations and internal stresses helps engineers anticipate structural responses under environmental stress. This insight supports the informed design of resilient components that maintain performance without unexpected mechanical failure in challenging operating conditions.
This research represents early-stage theoretical and numerical modelling of composite beam mechanics. The findings could inform structural engineers and advanced materials developers seeking to design carbon nanotube-reinforced components for variable temperature and humidity environments. However, the abstract does not indicate a direct application pathway or field validation, pointing to a long distance from real-world industrial deployment.
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The present study aims to carry out free vibration analysis of functionally graded single-walled carbon nanotube-reinforced composite (FG-CNTRC) beams under hygro-thermal conditions. The study is carried out using the recently proposed C-0 finite element-based higher-order zigzag theory. The study is carried out on five different CNTRC graded beams. Temperature and moisture-dependent material properties are used. Constant temperature or moisture distribution across the thickness of the beam is taken. Hamilton's principle has been used for defining the governing differential equations. Modal stresses are also studied for the first six mode shapes. Stresses at the higher mode of vibration are found to be more affected by temperature or moisture concentration as compared to the stresses observed for the fundamental mode of vibration. It is observed that the nature of stress distribution across the beam is widely affected by the gradation law along with moisture or temperature values to which the beam is subjected. FG-O beam is found to be least sensitive under thermal conditions whereas FG-X beam is found to be the most.
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DOI: 10.1080/15397734.2021.1977659
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