Bending of functionally graded cantilever beam with power-law non-linearity subjected to an end force

A realistic beam structure often exhibits material and geometrical non-linearity, in particular for those made of metals. The mechanical behaviors of a non-linear functionally graded-material (FGM) cantilever beam subjected to an end force are investigated by using large and small deformation theories. Young's modulus is assumed to be depth-dependent. For an FGM beam of power-law hardening, the location of the neutral axis is determined. The effects of depth-dependent Young's modulus and non-linearity parameter on the deflections and rotations of the FGM beams are analyzed. Our results show that different gradient indexes may change the bending stiffness of the beam so that an FGM beam may bear larger applied load than a homogeneous beam when choosing appropriate gradients. Moreover, the bending stress distribution in an FGM beam is completely different from that in a homogeneous beam. The bending stress arrives at the maximum tensile stress at an internal position rather than at the surface. Obtained results are useful in safety design of linear and non-linear beams.