Abstract
In this paper, the continuum based three-dimensional shell element for static linear analysis of Functionally Graded Carbon Nanotubes Reinforced Composite (FG-CNTRC) shell structures is discussed. The present finite element formulation used the extensible double directors theory including the upgrade parameter of thickness stretching. Four new elements are developed, in the present formulation, revealing firstly the enhancement of the thickness strain with one or four parameters and then the enrichment of the membrane strains with four added parameters by means of the Enhanced Assumed Strain (EAS) method. To further illustrate the applicability and efficiency of the developed methodology, it is worth to consider its application to plate and shell structures for isotropic and FG-CNTRC materials. Results of deflections and stresses of the studied shell structures are examined and depicted for various volume fractions and configurations of CNTs, different geometrical parameters and upgrading load values in order to highlight the impact of these parameters on static behavior of FG-CNTRC shells.