Semi-analytical analysis for multi-directional functionally graded plates: 3-D elasticity solutions

Semi-analytical 3-D elasticity solutions are presented for orthotropic multi-directional functionally graded plates using the differential quadrature method (DQM) based on the state-space formalism. Material properties are assumed to vary not only through the thickness but also in the in-plane directions following an exponential law. The graded in-plane domain is solved numerically via the DQM, while exact solutions are sought for the thickness domain using the state-space method. Convergence studies are performed, and the present hybrid semi-analytical method is validated by comparing numerical results with the exact solutions for a conventional unidirectional functionally graded plate. Finally, effects of material gradient indices on the displacement and stress fields of the plates are investigated and discussed. Copyright (C) 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.