Nonlinear static analysis of thin curved panels with FG coatings under combined axial compression and external pressure

The buckling behavior of thin curved panel with functionally graded (FG) coatings under combined axial compression and external pressure is investigated in the present work based on nonlinear analysis. The governing equations are developed using the classical (Kirchoff) shell theory (CST) with von Karman-type of nonlinearity and combining with initial geometrical imperfection. An Airy stress function and Galerkin's technique are applied to obtain closed-form expression of critical buckling loads and load-deflection relations. Besides, a detailed parametric study is conducted to verify and perform the effects of gradual law, thickness of the ceramic layer, imperfection parameter, aspect ratio of the panel including arc length-to-thickness and axial length-to-radius ratios as well as mechanical loading on the nonlinear buckling behavior of the imperfect thin curved panel with FG coatings.