Geometric nonlinear analyses of functionally graded beams using a tailored Lagrangian formulation

This paper presents a geometric nonlinear analysis formulation for beams of functionally graded cross-sections by means of a Total Lagrangian formulation. The influence of material gradation on the numerical response is investigated in detail. Two examples are given that illustrate the main features of the formulation, in which the behavior of beams of graded cross-sections is compared with homogeneous material beams. A motivation for this work is the potential development of functionally graded risers for the offshore oil exploration industry.