A new shear deformation plate theory with stretching effect for buckling analysis of functionally graded sandwich plates

In this research work, a simple and accurate hyperbolic plate theory for the buckling analysis of functionally graded sandwich plates is presented. The main interest of this theory is that, in addition to incorporating the thickness stretching effect (<i>&#949;_z</i> &#8800; 0), the displacement field is composed only of 5 unknowns as the first order shear deformation theory (FSDT), instead of 6 like in the well-known &#34;<i>higher order shear and normal deformation theories</i>&#34;. Thus, the number of unknowns and governing equations for the present theory is reduced, significantly facilitating engineering analysis. Governing equations are obtained by employing the principle of minimum total potential energy. Comparison studies are performed to verify the validity of present results. A numerical investigation has been conducted considering and neglecting the thickness stretching effects on the buckling of sandwich plates with functionally graded skins. It can be concluded that the present theory is not only accurate but also simple in predicting the buckling response of sandwich plates with functionally graded skins.