Static behavior of functionally graded sandwich beam with 1D-FG skins and ceramic core using a new quasi-3D HSDT

This paper investigates the static bending behavior of simply supported functionally graded (FG) sandwich beams with 1D-FG skins and a ceramic core, referred to as SW1DC. The study focuses on beams subjected to a uniformly distributed load, considering various configurations of symmetric and non-symmetric FG sandwich beams. The skins are composed of functionally graded materials, where Young's modulus varies gradually and continuously according to a power-law distribution based on the volume fractions of the constituent materials, while the core remains purely ceramic. The behavior of these multitype FG sandwich beams is analyzed using a novel quasi-3D high shear deformation theory. This innovative approach incorporates a unique displacement field to accurately capture the effects of transverse shear deformation, which are often significant in thick beams. The governing equilibrium equations are derived using the principle of virtual work and are solved using a Navier-type solution technique, ensuring robust and efficient computation. The numerical results include maximum dimensionless transverse deflections, as well as dimensionless axial, normal, and shear stresses, which are validated against analytical solutions and previous studies. The findings reveal that the current model provides improved accuracy and computational efficiency compared to traditional methods. Additionally, the study explores the influence of key geometrical and mechanical parameters, including beam thickness, material gradation index, and aspect ratios (length-to-width and width-tothickness ratios), on the static bending response. The results demonstrate that the proposed quasi-3D model offers significant advantages in predicting the bending behavior of FG sandwich beams, particularly in accounting for transverse shear effects without requiring the complexity of full 3D analysis. This methodology is not only versatile but also applicable to a wide range of beam configurations, making it a valuable tool for the design and analysis of advanced FG structures. Furthermore, the study highlights how symmetric and non-symmetric configurations and material gradations can be optimized to achieve desired performance characteristics, contributing to the development of more efficient and reliable FG sandwich beam designs.