Analysis of functionally graded beam using a new first-order shear deformation theory

A new first-order shear deformation theory is developed for dynamic behavior of functionally graded beams. The equations governing the axial and transverse deformations of functionally graded plates are derived based on the present first-order shear deformation plate theory. The governing equations and boundary conditions of functionally graded beams have the simple forms as those of isotropic plates. The influences of the volume fraction index and thickness-to-length ratio on the fundamental frequencies are discussed.The accuracy of the present solutions is verified by comparing the obtained results with the existing solutions.