Numerical buckling temperature prediction of graded sandwich panel using higher order shear deformation theory under variable temperature loading

The finite element solutions of thermal buckling load values of the graded sandwich curved shell structure are reported in this research using a higher-order kinematic model including the shear deformation effect. The numerical buckling temperature has been computed using an in-house specialized code (MATLAB environment) prepared in the framework of the current mathematical formulation. In addition, the mathematical model includes the excess structural distortion under the influence of elevated environment via Green-Lagrange nonlinear strain. The corresponding eigenvalue equation has been solved to predict the critical buckling temperature of the graded sandwich structure. The numerical stability and the accuracy of the current solution have been confirmed by comparing with the available published results. Thereafter, the model is extended to bring out the influences of structural parameters i.e. the curvature ratio, core-face thickness ratio, support conditions, power-law indices and sandwich types on the thermal buckling behavior of graded sandwich curved shell panels.