Free vibration analysis of functionally graded shells by a higher-order shear deformation theory and radial basis functions collocation, accounting for through-the-thickness deformations

This paper deals with free vibration problems of functionally graded shells. The analysis is performed by radial basis functions collocation, according to a higher-order shear deformation theory that accounts for through-the-thickness deformation.The equations of motion and the boundary conditions are obtained by Carrera’s Unified Formulation resting upon the principle of virtual work, and further interpolated by collocation with radial basis functions.Numerical results include spherical as well as cylindrical shell panels with all edges clamped or simply supported and demonstrate the accuracy of the present approach.

► Functionally graded shell panels are analyzed.
► Carrera’s Unified Formulation and collocation with radial basis functions are used.
► A higher-order shear deformation theory allowing thickness-stretching is employed.
► The fundamental frequency decreases as the radius of curvature increases.
► The thickness-stretching effect is independent of curvature radius.