Nonlinear Mechanics and Buckling Analysis of Composite Shells With Embedded Piezoelectric Actuators and Sensors

Nonlinear mechanics for piezoelectric composite laminates and shells are presented which include nonlinear effects due to large displacements and rotations. The mechanics are incorporated into the mixed piezoelectric laminate theory. Using the mechanics, a nonlinear finite element method and an incremental solution are formulated for the nonlinear analysis of adaptive shell structures. An eight-node shell finite element is developed. The mechanics are applied to predict the buckling of laminated piezoelectric shells induced by combined electromechanical loading. Application cases quantify the mechanical buckling of composite circular beams and cylindrical panels with piezoelectric sensors, the piezoelectric buckling of active circular beams and shells, and the feasibility of active buckling compensation.