Elasticity solution of functionally graded carbon-nanotube-reinforced composite cylindrical panel with piezoelectric sensor and actuator layers

In this paper the bending behavior of a uniform distribution (UD) and a functionally graded carbon-nanotube-reinforced composite (FG-CNTRC) cylindrical panel embedded in piezoelectric layers is investigated. The hybrid cylindrical panel has simply supported boundary conditions and is subjected to mechanical load and electric excitation. The governing equations are based on the three-dimensional theory of elasticity. By using Fourier series expansion along the longitudinal and latitudinal directions for the stress and displacement fields, and the state space technique across the thickness direction, a closed form solution is derived. The accuracy of the present approach is validated by comparing the numerical results with the results obtained in published literature. Finally, the effects of volume fraction of CNTs, cases of CNT distribution, piezoelectric layer thickness, length to thickness ratio and mechanical and electrical loads on the static behavior of the hybrid cylindrical panel are also examined.