Non-linear load-deflection response of SMA composite plate resting on winkler-pasternak type elastic foundation under various mechanical and thermal loading

This study investigates the non-linear load-deflection behavior of a composite plate reinforced with Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) fibers. The plate is subjected to the uniform lateral pressure and thermo-mechanical loading while resting on a Winkler-Pasternak type elastic foundation. In SMA fibers, simple one-dimensional Brinson's model is implemented to determine tensile recovery stresses due to the phase transformation. The non-linear semi-analytical solution is formulated for the examination of the large deflections including the preliminary geometrical imperfection. The governing equations of equilibrium are derived in terms of displacement and stress function. The Galerkin technique is chosen to solve the nonlinear partial differential equations of motions. A detailed parametric study including different SMA material properties, SMA fiber pre-strain values, SMA fiber volume fraction, foundation stiffness, and activation temperature are examined.