Static behavior of nonlocal Euler-Bernoulli beam model embedded in an elastic medium using mixed finite element formulation

The size-dependent behavior of single walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) embedded in the elastic medium and subjected to the initial axial force is investigated using the mixed finite element method. The SWCNT is assumed to be Euler- Bernoulli beam incorporating nonlocal theory developed by Eringen. The mixed finite element model shows its great advantage of dealing with nonlocal behavior of SWCNT subjected to a concentrated load owing to the existence of two coefficients alpha1 and alpha2. This is the first numerical approach to deal with a puzzling fact of nonlocal theory with concentrated load. Numerical examples are performed to show the accuracy and efficiency of the present method. In addition, parametric study is carefully carried out to point out the influences of nonlocal effect, the elastic medium, and the initial axial force on the behavior of the carbon nanotubes.