Experimental investigation of the nonlinear behaviour of shallow spherical shells

This paper presents a brief review of some recent contributions in the field of instability of shallow spherical shells. The causes of the apparent inconclusive nature of earlier experimental investigations are examined. This is followed by a report of work carried out in such a manner as to eliminate, as far as possible, some of the factors responsible for experimental error. The results of an experimental investigation of the non-linear stress and deformation characteristics of shallow shell behaviour are presented. Good experimental agreement with theory is shown to be dependent on the preparation of uniform stress free specimens of accurate geometry and on the requirement that the shell be supported in a manner consistent with the assumptions of relevant theory.