Static analysis of carbon nanotube-reinforced FG shells using an efficient solid-shell element with parabolic transverse shear strain

Purpose This paper aims to study the static behavior of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) reinforced functionally graded shells using an efficient solid-shell element with parabolic transverse shear strain. Four different types of reinforcement along the thickness are considered. Design/methodology/approach Furthermore, the developed solid-shell element allows an efficient and accurate analysis of CNT-reinforced functionally graded shells under linear static conditions. Findings The validity and accuracy of the developed solid-shell element are illustrated through the solution of deflection and stress distribution problems of shell structures taken from the literature. The influences of some geometrical and material parameters on the static behavior of shell structures are discussed. Originality/value The finite element formulation is based on a modified first-order enhanced solid-shell element formulation with an imposed parabolic shear strain distribution through the shell thickness in the compatible strain part. This formulation guarantees a zero transverse shear stress on the top and bottom surfaces of the shell and the shear correction factors is no longer needed.