Enhancing stability of curved beams with functionally graded carbon nanotubes: a multi-faceted approach

Functionally Graded CNT-reinforced curved beams offer significant stiffness properties but are prone to stability issues due to geometric imperfections, which compromise their load-bearing capacity and residual strength. To address this, an innovative approach introduces an imperfect hollow trapezoidal layer within the curved beam design, aiming to enhance its strength. However, existing analyses often overlook the thermal behavior of interface layers, particularly neglecting the frictional effects on the beam surface. To rectify this, a novel Frictional Endo-stratified Thermal Model is proposed, which accounts for the frictional interaction between interface layers through elastic and plastic deformation of the curved beam. This model efficiently identifies the frictional behavior of the layers, thereby determining thermal characteristics more accurately. Moreover, the structural interaction within composite curved beams significantly impacts their performance, often leading to ruptures. To tackle this challenge, a novel Intermolecular Elemental Model is introduced, which analyses molecular-level interaction behaviors and the strength-bearing capacity of Functionally Graded CNT-reinforced materials using the kinetic molecular theory of intermolecular forces. By integrating these advancements, the stability of curved beam designs is enhanced. The analysis is conducted within the ABAQUS tool, employing a finite element model to assess stability concerning frictional and intermolecular characteristics effectively. The result obtained showed the proposed design outperforms existing designs with a high elongation yield of 4 tensile strengths of 98 MPa, tensile modulus of 3.85 GPa, a specific gravity of 1.45 g/cm³, a melt temperature of 360 °C.