Abstract
In order to examine the accuracy of the enhanced double directors shell model for the functionally graded material (FGM) shell structures, a series of benchmark static tests are tackled using finite elements method. For implementing the discrete double directors shell model (DDDSM) within the Enhanced Strain Technique (EST), four parameters are used for enhancing the membrane strain. The vanishing of transverse shear strains on top and bottom faces is considered in a discrete form. The mechanical properties of the shell structure are assumed to vary continuously in the thickness direction by a simple power-law distribution in terms of the volume fractions of the constituents. A comparison with the exact solutions presented by several authors for shell structures indicates that the present model accurately estimates the stress-strain responses.