Large deflection analysis of an axially functionally graded hollow tapered beam under a uniformly distributed load

Abstract Functionally graded materials (FGMs) have various mechanical advantages and are naturally occurring, such as bamboo. Although bamboo is hollow and tapered, it remains resilient under a wind load. Based on this mechanical rationale, this study focuses on a large deflection of a tapering structure and the hollowing effect of a functionally graded beam. A theoretical analysis is conducted on a nonlinear bending of a slender and tapered hollow beam made of an axially FGM subjected to a uniformly distributed load undergoing a large deflection. To this end, governing equations are derived and a parametric study is conducted to investigate the effect of the inhomogeneous material, load magnitude and tapering and hollowing ratios on the large deflection of the beam. A linear analysis is conducted to examine the bending stress of the tapered beam and sets of deflection curves and angles along the beam are obtained and compared with values obtained from previous studies. As a result, the hollow and inhomogeneous nature of the axially FGM improves its rigidity against a wind load. This study provides insights into the potential use of axially FGMs to obtain more efficient and sturdier structural designs.