An analytical study on buckling behavior of CNT/polymer composite plates using the first order shear deformation theory

Most plates used in engineering structures such as aircraft wings, ship ducts and buildings, although quite capable of resisting tensile loads, are poor in withstanding compression. In order to avoid premature failure under compression, it is important to know buckling behavior of the plate. This article primarily deals with the analytical study of buckling behavior of a carbon nanotube reinforcing polymer composite plates based on the first order shear deformation theory by employing Mori-Tanaka micromechanics approach to obtain elastic properties. In this investigation, an attempt is made for evaluating the effect of plate thickness, CNT volume fraction, stacking sequence and CNT radii on the buckling of plates.