Mathematical

and Computational
Applications

Article
A Four-Variable Shear Deformation Theory for the Static
Analysis of FG Sandwich Plates with Different Porosity Models
Rabab A. Alghanmi * and Rawan H. Aljaghthami

Department of Mathematics, College of Sciences and Arts, King Abdulaziz University,

Rabigh 21911, Saudi Arabia; [email protected]
* Correspondence: [email protected]

Abstract: This study is centered on examining the static bending behavior of sandwich plates
featuring functionally graded materials, specifically addressing distinct representations of porosity
distribution across their thickness. The composition of the sandwich plate involves a ceramic core and
two face sheets with functionally graded properties. Mechanical loads with a sinusoidal distribution
are applied to the sandwich plate, and a four-variable shear deformation theory is employed to
establish the displacement field. Notably, this theory involves only four unknowns, distinguishing
it from alternative shear deformation theories. Equilibrium equations are derived using the virtual
work concept, and Navier’s method is applied to obtain the solution. The study addresses the impact
of varying porosities, inhomogeneity parameters, aspect ratios, and side-to-thickness ratios on the
static bending behavior of the sandwich plates. The influence of various porosities, inhomogeneity
parameter, aspect ratio, and side-to-thickness ratio of the sandwich plates are explored and compared
in the context of static bending behavior. The three porosity distributions are compared in terms of
their influence on the bending behavior of the sandwich plate. The findings indicate that a higher
porosity causes larger deflections and Model A has the highest central deflection. Adopting the four-
variable shear deformation theory demonstrated its validity since the results were similar to those
obtained in the literature. Several important findings have been found, which could be useful in the
construction and application of FG sandwich structures. Examples of comparison will be discussed
to support the existing theory’s accuracy. Further findings are presented to serve as benchmarks
for comparison.

Citation: Alghanmi, R.A.; Keywords: functionally graded material; porosity; bending; sandwich plates; Navier’s method
Aljaghthami, R.H. A Four-Variable
Shear Deformation Theory for the
Static Analysis of FG Sandwich Plates
with Different Porosity Models. Math. 1. Introduction
Comput. Appl. 2024, 29, 20. https:// Functionally graded materials (FGMs) represent a category of engineered material
doi.org/10.3390/mca29020020
characterized by a gradual change in composition, microstructure, as well as characteristics
Received: 27 January 2024 across a given volume. These materials are intended to optimize performance by customiz-
Revised: 29 February 2024 ing material properties to specific requirements, resulting in improved functionality and
Accepted: 6 March 2024 performance when compared to typical homogeneous materials [1,2]. FGMs are used in a
Published: 8 March 2024 variety of industries, including aerospace, automotive, medicinal, and energy. Numerous
studies have been carried out to examine the mechanical and thermal characteristics of
structures made from FGM [3–13].
Sandwich plates with FGMs are composite structures that consist of a core mate-
Copyright: © 2024 by the authors.
rial sandwiched between two face sheets and have a graded variation in composition,
Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.
microstructure, or characteristics in at least one of the components (core or face sheets).
This article is an open access article
distributed under the terms and
Functionally graded sandwich plates provide benefits such as increased strength-to-weight
conditions of the Creative Commons
ratio, increased load-bearing capacity, and customized mechanical properties. Because the
Attribution (CC BY) license (https://
materials are graded, they can be optimized for performance and functionality in certain
creativecommons.org/licenses/by/ regions of the construction. Since the sandwich configuration and functionally graded
4.0/).

Math. Comput. Appl. 2024, 29, 20. https://doi.org/10.3390/mca29020020 https://www.mdpi.com/journal/mca

Math. Comput. Appl. 2024, 29, 20 2 of 21

layers allow for customization performance, these structures are suited for a wide range of
engineering applications.
Several studies have been published on the static and dynamic behaviors of sandwich
plates under different conditions. A two-dimensional solution for the bending, buckling,
and free vibration of a novel three-layer sandwich plate with FG faces was developed
by Zenkour [14,15]. Analytical approaches for bending, free vibration, and buckling of
rectangular FG sandwich plates were provided by Thai et al. [16], which included different
boundary conditions following a new first-order shear deformation theory (FSDT). A
higher-order shear deformation theory was adopted by Nguyen et al. [17] as well as an
edge-based strain approach to analyze the static and vibration behavior of isotropic and
FG sandwich plates. A static analysis of FG sandwich plates was conducted by Mantari
and Granados [18] through a novel FSDT. In [19], A mechanical bending analysis of two
FG sandwich plates was conducted, exploring different boundary conditions through the
finite strip approach in accordance with the refined plate theory (RSPT). The work of
adopting the finite strip approach in accordance with refined plate theory (RSPT). Hirane
et al. [20] introduced a fixed high order layered finite element model (FEM) to look into the
static and free vibration of FG sandwich plates according to various boundary conditions.
For parametrically examining the free vibration behavior of the FG sandwich plate with
a homogenous core, a reliable and effective computational method was developed by
Cho [21]. This numerical approach was built on hierarchical models derived from the
accuracy of the spectrum model and the 2-D natural element method. Monajati et al. [22]
present a new RSPT-based approach for examining the vibration and buckling of FG plates.
The Airy stress function excludes in-plane variables, resulting in only two state variables:
transverse bending and transverse shear deformation.
During the fabrication of functionally graded materials (FGMs), voids or porosities
naturally occur within the material [23]. The idea of functionally graded materials with
porosities integrates the concept of FGMs with the presence of pores or voids within the
material structure. This integration can result in better qualities such as weight reduc-
tion, thermal insulation improvement, and specialized functional characteristics. Several
researchers [24–28] were interested in the buckling analysis of porous FGM structures.
Additionally, the vibration of FG porous structures has been explored by different re-
searchers [29–36].
Static bending of FG plates with porosity has been investigated in many studies. The
study provided by Zenkour and Radwan [37] explained how bending analysis of FG porous
plates is affected if consideration is given to moisture and temperature. FG porous plates
were analyzed by Alghanmi and Zenkour [38] for static bending with the existence of
piezoelectric fiber-reinforced composite (PFRC) layer attached to the plates using a quasi-
three-dimensional (3D) theory RSPT, while in article [39], they applied a sinusoidal shear
deformation theory to examine the bending behavior considering porosity in FG plates with
a PFRC layer. The effect of porosities on the dynamic analysis of FG sandwich plates was
studied by Benferhat et al. [40], where the plates are simply supported, using a new refined
shear deformation theory which includes transverse shear deformation effects. Porous
FG sandwich plates were studied under the effect of bending, vibration, and buckling
using the FEM integrated with hyperbolic shear deformation theory. The author concluded
that plates of any form and boundary conditions can be evaluated using the current finite
element algorithm, and when the porosity effect is included, an increase is observed in
the deflection and critical buckling load. The pattern of porosity distribution affected the
tendency of natural frequency change. As a result, the position and distribution of porosity
have a significant impact on the FG sandwich plates with porosity behavior [41]. In [42],
the effect of porosities was investigated on composite nanoplates under hygrothermal
conditions in the perspective of 3D elasticity. The assumed plate was extended over a two-
parameter polymeric medium. They proposed a quasi-3D elasticity analysis in addition to
the theory of nonlocal continuum as a method of solving.
Math. Comput. Appl. 2024, 29, x FOR PEER REVIEW 3 of 22

Math. Comput. Appl. 2024, 29, 20 3 of 21

The study of Alghanmi [43] considered static analysis of nanoplates composed of

FGMs containing porosities. To model these nanoplates, the research integrated the non-
localThe study
strain of Alghanmi
gradient [43] considered
theory (NSGT) static analysis
with a four-variable of nanoplates
shear deformation composed
theory. FG of
FGMs containing porosities. To model these nanoplates, the research
sandwich plates composed of piezoelectric faces seized the attention of different researchintegrated the nonlocal
strain gradient theory (NSGT) with a four-variable shear deformation theory. FG sandwich
works. The research of [44] employed the two-variable shear deformation plate theory to
plates composed of piezoelectric faces seized the attention of different research works. The
explore stress and deformation analysis of sandwich plates. These plates feature a core
research of [44] employed the two-variable shear deformation plate theory to explore stress
with functionally graded properties and faces composed of piezoelectric materials. They
and deformation analysis of sandwich plates. These plates feature a core with functionally
examined the impact of sinusoidal loadings that encompass hygro-thermal-electro-me-
graded properties and faces composed of piezoelectric materials. They examined the
chanical aspects.
impact of sinusoidal loadings that encompass hygro-thermal-electro-mechanical aspects.
The static behavior of porous plates was studied alongside a functional gradient to
The static behavior of porous plates was studied alongside a functional gradient to
characterize the impact of the shear correction factor related to FSDT [45]. The buckling
characterize the impact of the shear correction factor related to FSDT [45]. The buckling
characteristic of FG porous plates adopting a quasi-3D refined theory was examined by
characteristic of FG porous plates adopting a quasi-3D refined theory was examined
Zenkour and Aljadani [46]. The consequence of thickness stretching and the three types
by Zenkour and Aljadani [46]. The consequence of thickness stretching and the three
of FG porous plates were considered in this investigation. The exploration of how porosity
types of FG porous plates were considered in this investigation. The exploration of how
distribution
porosity affects the
distribution staticthe
affects and buckling
static responseresponse
and buckling of an FGofporous plate was
an FG porous investi-
plate was
gated by Dhuria
investigated et al. [47].
by Dhuria et al.To simulate
[47]. the porous
To simulate FG plate,
the porous an inverse
FG plate, hyperbolic
an inverse shear
hyperbolic
deformation
shear theorytheory
deformation with anwithinverse hyperbolic
an inverse shearshear
hyperbolic strainstrainfunction is adopted.
function is adopted.
The most recent work on the structural analysis of FGMs
The most recent work on the structural analysis of FGMs was presented was presented by Alghanmi
by Al-
[48]. In that investigation, an NSGT was constructed to examine
ghanmi [48]. In that investigation, an NSGT was constructed to examine the the bending of sandwich
bending
nanoplates
of sandwichfeaturing
nanoplates FGfeaturing
porous cores and electromagnetic
FG porous layers. The FG
cores and electromagnetic sandwich
layers. The FG na-
noplates were
sandwich characterized
nanoplates using a four-variable
were characterized shear deformation
using a four-variable theory and two
shear deformation dis-
theory
tincttwo
and porosity distribution
distinct models. models.
porosity distribution
Several studies
Several studies have
have delved
delved intointo the
the bending
bending ofof the
the FG FG sandwich
sandwich plate,plate, referring
referring to to
the review studies. A more thorough examination of the studies
the review studies. A more thorough examination of the studies on the impact of porosityon the impact of porosity
findsvarious
finds various gaps
gaps and
and inconsistencies.
inconsistencies. Limited
Limited investigations
investigationshave have been
been conducted
conductedin inthe
the
domain of
domain of FG
FG sandwich
sandwich plates
plates influenced
influenced by by porosity.
porosity.The Thedistribution
distribution of of FGM
FGM material
material
constituentsshould
constituents shouldthenthenbebeassociated
associatedwithwithporosities.
porosities.A A further
further in-depth
in-depth investigation
investigationof of
theporosity
the porosityfactor
factorcontribution
contributionto toFGFGsandwich
sandwichplates
platesisisrequired.
required.This Thisstudy
studywaswas devoted
devoted
toillustrating
to illustratingthe theinfluence
influence ofofthethe porosity
porosity operator,
operator, givengiven
thatthattherethere is a scarcity
is a scarcity of re-
of research
search on porosities in the literature. The displacement field is determined
on porosities in the literature. The displacement field is determined through a four-variable through a four-
variable
shear shear deformation
deformation theory. Interestingly,
theory. Interestingly, there
there are just fourareunknowns
just four unknowns in this
in this theory. the-
Three
ory. Three
models models distributions
of porosity of porosity distributions
are consideredare in
considered
a rectangular in a FGrectangular
sandwichFG sandwich
plate under
plate underloading.
mechanical mechanical The loading. The three
three porosity porosity
models models are
are compared in compared
terms of theirin terms of their
influence on
influence
the bending onbehavior
the bending behavior
of the plate. of the plate.

2.
2. Theoretical
Theoretical Model
Model and
and Formulas
Formulas
The
The sandwich
sandwich plate,
plate, illustrated in Figure
illustrated in Figure 11 with
with dimensions
dimensions of of length
length 𝑎,a, width b,
width 𝑏,
and thickness h, with the middle plane defined by z = 0. Comprising
and thickness ℎ, with the middle plane defined by 𝑧 = 0. Comprising three layers, the three layers, the
upper
upper and
and lower
lower layers
layers are
are constructed
constructed from
from functionally
functionally gradedgraded material
material of
of ceramic
ceramic and
and
metal,
metal, while the middle layer is composed of pure ceramic/metal. The FG sandwich plate
while the middle layer is composed of pure ceramic/metal. The FG sandwich plate
experiences
experiencesaadistributed
distributedmechanical loadq𝑞(𝑥,
mechanicalload ( x, y𝑦)
) atatitsitstop
topsurface
surface ==
(z (𝑧 h/2 ).
ℎ/2).

Figure1.
Figure 1. Geometry
Geometry and
and dimensions
dimensionsof
ofthe
thesandwich
sandwichplate
platewith
withporosities.
porosities.
Math. Comput. Appl. 2024, 29, 20 4 of 21

2.1. Material Properties and Porosity Models

Most studies use the Voigt and Mori–Tanaka schemes for analyzing functionally
graded plates and structures. The Voigt model has been used in the majority of FG structure
assessments because it is simple to calculate and can be used to set upper and lower bounds
on a heterogeneous material’s effective elastic characteristics. It provides a conservative
estimate, which may be one of the reasons why most researchers have utilized the rule
of mixture. Based on Voigt’s rule of mixture, the material properties P, Young’s modulus
and Poisson’s ratio, of each layer of the sandwich plate with perfect FG face layers can be
expressed by the following formulas [14]:
P(1) (z) = Pm + ( Pc − Pm )V (1) (z),
P(2) (z) = Pm + ( Pc − Pm )V (2) (z), (1)
P(3) (z) = Pm + ( Pc − Pm )V (3) (z),

where P(1) , P(2) , and P(3) are the material properties related to the first, second, and third
layers, respectively. Pc and Pm indicate the material properties of ceramic and metal, respec-
tively. In addition, V (1) (z), V (2) (z), and V (3) (z) are the volume fractions [14] of ceramic
with respect to the total volume for the first, second, and third FG layers, respectively, as
indicated in Equation (2).
 k
V (1) (z) = hz−−hh0 , h0 ≤ z ≤ h1 ,
1 0
V (2) (z) = 1, h1 ≤ z ≤ h2 , (2)
 k
V (3) (z) = hz−−hh3 , h2 ≤ z ≤ h3 ,
2 3

where h0 = −h/2 and h3 = h/2 indicate the bottom and top faces, respectively, and
k(k ≥ 0) specifies the volume fraction index. In this study, the sandwich plate exhibits
symmetry and is constructed with three layers of equal thickness. Therefore, the inner
interfaces are set to h1 = −h/6 and h2 = h/6.
This research proposes three models of porosity distribution across the plate thickness
in addition to the case of perfect FG layers which contain no porosity. The models are
named A, B, and C, and they differ according to the pattern of porosity distribution across
the plate thickness. Therefore, the material properties for each type varies with the z
coordinate according to the following [41,49].

2.1.1. FG with Even Porosities (Model A)

The porosities in Model A are uniformly spread across the thickness direction of the
FG layers, thus their material properties can be represented as follows [41,49]:
P(1) (z) = Pm + ( Pc − Pm )V (1) (z) − α2 ( Pc + Pm ),
P(2) (z) = Pm + ( Pc − Pm )V (2) (z), (3)
P(3) (z) = Pm + ( Pc − Pm )V (3) (z) − α2 ( Pc + Pm ),

where α indicates the porosity coefficient which is much less than 1 and it takes the value
of zero in the absence of porosity.

2.1.2. FG with Uneven Porosities (Model B)

In this model, the porosities are distributed unevenly across the thickness direction of
the FG layers. Therefore, the material properties of each layer can be defined based on the
following functions [41,49]:
 
|2z−(h0 +h1 )|
P(1) (z) = Pm + ( Pc − Pm )V (1) (z) − α2 ( Pc + Pm ) 1 − h −h ,
1 0
P(2) (z) = Pm + ( Pc − Pm )V (2) (z),  (4)
|2z−(h2 +h3 )|
P (3) ( z ) = Pm + ( Pc − Pm )V (3) (z) − α2 ( Pc + Pm ) 1 − h3 − h2 ,
Math. Comput. Appl. 2024, 29, 20 5 of 21

2.1.3. FG with Linear-Uneven Porosities (Model C)

The porosities in this model are spread unevenly and linearly over the thickness. The
functions that follow can be used to define the material attributes for each layer [41,49].
 
P(1) (z) = Pm + ( Pc − Pm )V (1) (z) − α2 ( Pc + Pm ) 1 − hz−−hh1 ,
0 1
P(2) (z) = Pm + ( Pc − Pm )V (2) (z),   (5)
z − h3
P(3) (z) = Pm + ( Pc − Pm )V (3) (z) − α2 ( Pc + Pm ) h2 − h3 ,

2.2. Displacement Field and Constitutive Equations

The displacement model for the FG porous sandwich plate is introduced through a
four-variable shear deformation theory as [50]
u1 ( x, y, z) = u( x, y) − z ∂w ∂ws
∂x − f ( z ) ∂x ,
b

∂wb ∂ws
u2 ( x, y, z) = v( x, y) − z ∂y − f (z) ∂y , (6)
u3 ( x, y, z) = wb ( x, y) + ws ( x, y),

in which u and v are the displacements in the x and y directions at the middle of the
plate, respectively; wb , ws are the displacements in the z direction
 resulting from bending
3
moment and shear forces, respectively; and f (z) = − 4z + 53 hz 2 , which describes the
variation in transverse shear stresses across the thickness of the FG sandwich, is regarded
as the shape function [51]. The strain–displacement relationships are provided by the linear
elasticity theory as
2w 2w ∂2 w b 2w
ε xx = ∂u
− z∂ b
− f (z) ∂ s
, ∂y − z ∂y2 −
∂v
ε yy = f (z) ∂ s
,
∂x ∂x2 ∂x2 ∂y2
γyz = ∂w ′ γ = ∂w ′
∂y [1 − ∂x [1 − f (iz )],
s s
f (z)], (7)
h xz2 2
∂ wb ∂ ws
γxy = ∂u∂y + ∂x − 2 z ∂x∂y + f ( z ) ∂x∂y ,
∂v

The constitutive equation for the FG porous sandwich plate can be written as
    

 σx  c11 c12 0 0 0 
 εx 
 y   c12 c22 0 0 0
 σ   
 ε y 
    
τyz =  0 0 c44 0 0  γyz , (8)
  
 0 0 0 c55 0
 
 τxz 

   γxz 

 

0 0 0 0 c66
   
τxy γxy

The plate stiffness coefficients cij have been designated by

E(z) ν(z) E(z) E(z)

c11 = c22 = 2
, c12 = , c44 = c55 = c66 = , (9)
1 − ν (z) 1 − ν2 ( z ) 2(1 + ν(z))

where E(z) denotes Young’s modulus and ν(z) denotes Poisson’s ratio, which are men-
tioned in Equations (3)–(5).

3. Governing Equations
The governing equations are deduced using the virtual work principle, as presented
in the following equation:
Z h/2 Z
Z
σx δε x + σy δε y + τxy δγxy + τyz δγyz + τxz δγxz dΩdz − qδu3 dΩ = 0 (10)
−h/2 Ω Ω

where q is the load distributed the top surface of the sandwich plate. By substituting
Equation (7) into Equation (10) and integrating across the thickness, Equation (10) becomes:
Math. Comput. Appl. 2024, 29, 20 6 of 21

R 2 δw 2 δw 2 δw 2 δw
{ Nxx ∂δu
− Mxx ∂ 2
b
− Sxx ∂ 2
s
∂y − Myy
+ Nyy ∂δv ∂
2
b
− Syy ∂ s
∂x ∂x ∂x ∂y ∂y2
Ω
∂ δwb ∂ δws 2
∂δws ∂δws 2 (11)
∂y + N xy ∂x − 2Mxy ∂x∂y − 2S xy ∂x∂y + Qyz ∂y + Q xz ∂x
+ N xy ∂δu ∂δv

−qδwb − qδws }dΩ = 0,

where the stress resultants Nij , Mij , Sij , and Qiz are characterized as
3 R hn (n)
Nij , Mij , Sij = ∑

h n −1 σij {1, z, f (z)}dz, i, j = x, y,
n =1 (12)
3 R hn (n)
Qi3 = ∑ h n −1 τiz [1 − f ′ (z)]dz, i = x, y,
n =1

where hn and hn−1 are the top and bottom z-coordinates of the nth layer. After integrat-
ing Equation (11) by parts and substituting δu, δv, δwb , and δws to zero, the following
equilibrium equations result:
∂Nxx ∂Nxy
∂x + ∂y = 0,
∂Nxy ∂Nyy
∂x + ∂y = 0,
∂2 Mxx ∂2 M ∂2 Myy (13)
+ 2 ∂x∂yxy + + q = 0,
∂x2 ∂y2
∂2 Sxx ∂2 Sxy ∂2 Syy ∂Qyz
+ 2 ∂x∂y + 2 + ∂Q xz
∂x + ∂y + q = 0,
∂x2 ∂y

By including the constitutive equations from Equations (6)–(8) into Equation (12), the
stress resultants for the sandwich plate can take the following forms:
2w 2 ∂2 w b ∂2 w s
∂x − A2
Nxx = A1 ∂u ∂ b
− A3 ∂ w2s + A4 ∂v ∂y − A5 ∂y2 − A6 ∂y2 ,
∂x2 ∂x
∂2 w b ∂2 w s ∂2 w b ∂2 w s
Nyy = A4 ∂u∂x − A5 ∂x2 − A6 ∂x2 + A7 ∂y − A8 ∂y2 − A9 ∂y2 ,
∂v

∂2 w b ∂2 w s ∂2 w b ∂2 w s
∂x − A10 ∂x2 − A11 ∂x2 + A5 ∂y − A12 ∂y2 − A13 ∂y2 ,
Mxx = A2 ∂u ∂v

∂2 w b ∂2 w s ∂2 w b ∂2 w s
∂x − A12 ∂x2 − A13 ∂x2 + A8 ∂y − A14 ∂y2 − A15 ∂y2 ,
Myy = A5 ∂u ∂v

∂2 w b ∂2 w s ∂2 w b ∂2 w s
∂x − A11 ∂x2 − A16 ∂x2 + A6 ∂y − A13 ∂y2 − A17 ∂y2 ,
Sxx = A3 ∂u ∂v
(14)
∂2 w b ∂2 w s ∂2 w b ∂2 w s
∂x − A13 ∂x2 − A17 ∂x2 + A9 ∂y − A15 ∂y2 − A18 ∂y2 ,
Syy = A6 ∂u ∂v

∂2 w b
   
∂2 w s
Nxy = A19 ∂u + ∂v
− 2 A 20 + A 21 ∂x∂y ,
 ∂y ∂x  ∂x∂y
∂2 w b
 2w
Mxy = A20 ∂y + ∂x − 2 A22 ∂x∂y + A23 ∂∂x∂y
∂u ∂v s
,
2
   2

∂ wb ∂ ws
Sxy = A21 ∂u ∂y + ∂x − 2 A23 ∂x∂y + A24 ∂x∂y ,
∂v

Qyz = A25 ∂w s
∂y , Q xz = A26 ∂x ,
∂ws

The constants provided in the previous equations are defined as follows:

   
A1 A2 A3 R 2h c11  
 A4 A5 A6  = −h c12  1 z f (z) dz,
2
A7 A8 A9 c
   22 
A10 A11 A16 R 2h c 11 
 A12 A13 A17  = −h c12  z2 z f (z) f 2 (z) dz,

2
(15)
A14 A15 A18 
 c22 
A19 A20 A21 R h
2 1 z f (z)
= −h c66 2 dz,
A22 A23 A24 2 z z f (z) f 2 (z)
Rh
{ A25 , A26 } = −2h {c44 , c55 }[1 − f ′ (z)]2 dz,
2
Math. Comput. Appl. 2024, 29, 20 7 of 21

4. Solution Method
The sandwich plate is chosen to be simply supported along all edges. The boundary
conditions can thus be represented as follows:
∂wb ∂ws
v = wb = ws = ∂y = ∂y = Nx = Mx = Sx = 0, at x = 0, a,
∂wb ∂ws
, (16)
u = wb = ws = ∂x = ∂x = Ny = My = Sy = 0, at y = 0, b.

The solution is obtained using Navier’s method. According to this solution, the
mechanical load can be represented as follows for the case of sinusoidal load distribution:

q = q0 sin(αx )sin( βy), (17)

where α = π/a, and β = π/b. As for q0 , it denotes the intensity of q( x, y). Navier proposed
the following solutions for u, v, wb , ws , which satisfy the indicated boundary conditions:
   
 u   Ucos(αx )sin( βy) 
v = Vsin(αx ) cos( βy) , (18)
( wb , ws ) (Wb , Ws )sin(αx )sin( βy)
   

where (U, V, Wb , Ws ) are arbitrary parameters to be obtained. With the help of

Equations (17) and (18), one can easily convert Equation (13) to obtain the following
algebraic system equation:
[ A]{∆} = { F }, (19)
where {∆} = {U, V, Wb , Ws } and { F } = {0, 0, q0 , q0 }. Appendix A contains the nonzero
entries aij = a ji of the symmetric matrix [A].

5. Results and Discussion

In this section, numerical results are presented for the bending of sandwich plates
with faces made with functionally graded porous materials and metal/ceramic core.

5.1. Material Properties

The numerical solution is obtained for sandwich plates composed of aluminum and
zirconia. The Young’s modulus is 70 GPa for aluminum and 151 GPa for zirconia. The
Poisson’s ratio is taken as 0.3 for both materials. Despite the fact that the Poisson’s ratios
are the same for both materials, the effective Poisson’s ratio varies with thickness due to
the inclusion of the porosity effect.

5.2. Nondimensional Parameters

The calculated stresses and deflections are presented in dimensionless forms as follows
   
h2
w = 10hE2
0
a q0 
u 3
a b
2 , 2 , z , σ x = 2
a q0
σx
a b
2 , 2 , z ,
 (20)
τ xz = aqh0 τxz 0, 2b , z , τ xy = aqh0 τxy (0, 0, z), z = hz ,

in which the reference variable is set to E0 = 1 GPa and q0 = 100 N/m2 .

5.3. Comparison and Validation

For the purpose of verification, sandwich plates with functionally graded faces and a
ceramic core are considered first without the inclusion of the porosity factor. The results
of the dimensionless central deflection w are obtained for different plate aspect ratios b/a
and compared with the solutions found in other references. The comparison is displayed
in Table 1. The results of dimensionless central deflection w obtained by Zenkour [14] by
implementing four plate theories: classical plate theory (CPT), first-order shear deformation
theory (FSDT), third-order shear deformation theory (TSDT), and the sinusoidal shear
Math. Comput. Appl. 2024, 29, 20 8 of 21

deformation theory (SSDT). The results in Table 1 are obtained for different schemes. The
schemes mentioned in Table 1 are constructed with different values of h1 and h2 as follows:

1-0-1 : h1 = 0, h2 = 0

2-1-2 : h1 = −h/10, h2 = h/10

1-1-1 : h1 = −h/6, h2 = h/6
2-2-1 : h1 = −h/10, h2 = 3h/10
1-2-1 : h1 = −h/4, h2 = h/4

Table 1. Dimensionless central deflection w of non-porous FG sandwich plates (perfect FG) (k = 2).

a/b
Scheme Method
1/3 0.5 1 1.5 2
1-0-1 CPT [14] 1.16247 0.91865 0.35885 0.13590 0.05742
FSDT [14] 1.19200 0.94473 0.37514 0.14592 0.06393
SSDT [14] 1.18808 0.94124 0.37297 0.14458 0.06305
TSDT [14] 1.18877 0.94186 0.37335 0.14481 0.06321
Present 1.18877 0.94186 0.37335 0.14481 0.06321
2-1-2 CPT [14] 1.09971 0.86891 0.33942 0.12854 0.05431
FSDT [14] 1.12611 0.89237 0.35408 0.13756 0.06017
SSDT [14] 1.12204 0.88876 0.35183 0.13617 0.05926
TSDT [14] 1.12293 0.88955 0.35231 0.13647 0.05946
Present 1.12293 0.88945 0.35231 0.13647 0.05946
1-1-1 CPT [14] 1.03895 0.82090 0.32067 0.12144 0.05131
FSDT [14] 1.06369 0.84289 0.33411 0.12989 0.05680
SSDT [14] 1.05989 0.83952 0.33230 0.12895 0.05619
TSDT [14] 1.06096 0.84046 0.33289 0.12895 0.05619
Present 1.06096 0.84046 0.33289 0.12895 0.05619
2-2-1 CPT [14] 0.98512 0.77837 0.30405 0.11514 0.04085
FSDT [14] 1.00911 0.79969 0.31738 0.12334 0.05398
SSDT [14] 1.00585 0.79679 0.34557 0.12222 0.05325
TSDT [14] 1.00694 0.79776 0.31617 0.12260 0.05325
Present 1.00694 0.79776 0.31617 0.12260 0.05349
1-2-1 CPT [14] 0.94269 0.74489 0.29095 0.11018 0.04655
FSDT [14] 0.96563 0.76524 0.30370 0.10803 0.05165
SSDT [14] 0.96248 0.76243 0.30195 0.11694 0.05094
TSDT [14] 0.96371 0.76353 0.30263 0.11737 0.05122
Present 0.96371 0.76353 0.30263 0.11737 0.05122

In the same table are given the results of the present study. It can be observed that
the present results are almost identical to the results of the third-order shear deformation
theory (TSDT). The results of the CPT theory are the farthest from the present results since
the CPT does not consider shear deformation.

5.4. Bending Analysis of the FG Porous Sandwich Plates

5.4.1. Sandwich Plates with Ceramic Core
As part of the bending analysis of the porous sandwich plate, it is important to explore
the distribution of central deflection as well as the bending and shear stresses across the
thickness of the plate. Through this analysis, the effect of porosity on the behavior of
sandwich plates can be identified.
The comparison between the different porosity models at different porosity ratios for
the nondimensional central deflection is summarized in Table 2. It can be noticed that
at the same porosity coefficient (α), the central deflection is highest in the case of Model
A followed by Model B, then Model C, with a higher difference in deflection observed
between Models A and B (see Figure 9a). This is due to the reduction in the modulus of
Math. Comput. Appl. 2024, 29, 20 9 of 21

elasticity from the perfect model down to Model C, in the same order mentioned above.
On the other hand, for each model, increasing the coefficient of porosity (α) results in
the increase in deflection. Again, here, the increase in the deflection can be referred to
the degradation of the modulus of elasticity as a result of intensifying the porosities in
the external layers. In addition, as the plate length-to-thickness ratio (a/h) increases, the
deflection values increase, which can be referred to as the reduction in the plate bending
stiffness at higher values of length-to-thickness ratios (a/h).

Table 2. Effect of porosities on dimensionless central deflection w(0) of FG sandwich plates with
ceramic core (k = 2).

a/h α Perfect Model A Model B Model C

10 0 0.33289 -- -- --
0.1 -- 0.38414 0.35595 0.34794
0.2 -- 0.45086 0.38155 0.36742
0.3 -- 0.54184 0.41039 0.38677
20 0 1.29489 -- -- --
0.1 -- 1.49856 1.38653 1.36044
0.2 -- 1.76382 1.48859 1.43190
0.3 -- 2.12577 1.60341 1.50869
50 0 8.02885 -- -- --
0.1 -- 9.29942 8.60067 8.44051
0.2 -- 10.95449 9.23779 8.88325
0.3 -- 13.21322 9.95453 9.36211

As for the nondimensional normal stress (σ x ) at the external surface of the plate,
Table 3 shows that at the same porosity coefficient (α), the highest values are observed
in Model B then it decreases in Model C, then Model A, which shows the lowest values.
Within the same model, normal stress is inversely proportional with α. There can be noticed
a significant drop in the normal stress when moving from zero porosity model (perfect
model) to a porous model.

Table 3. Effect of porosities on dimensionless normal stress σ x (h/2) of FG sandwich plates with
ceramic core (k = 2).

a/h α Perfect Model A Model B Model C

10 0 1.59370 -- -- --
0.1 -- 0.14810 0.17069 0.16741
0.2 -- 0.13692 0.18325 0.17624
0.3 -- 0.12218 0.19741 0.18569
20 0 1.58524 -- -- --
0.1 -- 0.14827 0.16982 0.16666
0.2 -- 0.13632 0.18239 0.17538
0.3 -- 0.12169 0.19654 0.18483
50 0 1.58287 -- -- --
0.1 -- 0.14807 0.16957 0.16641
0.2 -- 0.13615 0.18215 0.17515
0.3 -- 0.12156 0.19629 0.18459

The nondimensional shear stress (τ xz ) at the middle of the plate depth (z = 0) shows
the highest values in the case of Model A followed by Model C, then Model B at fixed
porosity coefficient α (see Table 4). When the porosity coefficient (α) is increased for any
model, the shear stress (τ xz ) at (z = 0) is also increased.
The nondimensional stress (τ xy ) at (z = −h/3) is highest in Model A followed by
Model C, then Model B, considering fixed value of the porosity coefficient (α) (see Table 5).
When the porosity coefficient (α) is increased for any model, the shear stress (τ xy ) at
Math. Comput. Appl. 2024, 29, 20 10 of 21

(z = −h/3) is reduced. This stress is also directly proportional to the length-to-thickness

ratio (a/h) where the stress shows higher values at higher (a/h).

Table 4. Effect of porosities on dimensionless shear stress τ xz (0) of FG sandwich plates with ceramic
core (k = 2).

a/h α Perfect Model A Model B Model C

10 0 0.27188 -- -- --
0.1 -- 0.28065 0.27541 0.23777
0.2 -- 0.29074 0.27915 0.28146
0.3 -- 0.30260 0.28313 0.28661
20 0 0.27197 -- -- --
0.1 -- 0.28074 0.27507 0.26221
0.2 -- 0.29083 0.27925 0.28155
0.3 -- 0.30267 0.28323 0.28671
50 0 0.27200 -- -- --
0.1 -- 0.28077 0.27498 0.26998
0.2 -- 0.29085 0.27928 0.28158
0.3 -- 0.30270 0.28326 0.28674

Table 5. Effect of porosities on shear stress τ xy (−h/3) of FG sandwich plates with ceramic core (k = 2).

a/h α Perfect Model A Model B Model C

Math. Comput. Appl. 2024, 29, x FOR PEER REVIEW
10 0 0.73130 -- -- --11 of 22
0.1 -- 0.76124 0.70389 0.73064
0.2 -- 0.79066 0.66632 0.72685
0.3 -- 0.81927 0.61660 0.72113
20 0.1 0 -- 1.46421 1.52380-- 1.40915
-- 1.46221
--
0.2 0.1 -- -- 1.52380
1.58231 1.40915
1.33397 1.46221
1.45539
0.3 0.2 -- -- 1.58231
1.63915 1.33397
1.23438 1.45539
1.44396
0.3 -- 1.63915 1.23438 1.44396
5050 0 0 3.66166
3.66166 -- -- -- -- ----
0.1 0.1 -- -- 3.81042
3.81042 3.52382
3.52382 3.65625
3.65625
0.2 0.2 -- -- 3.95646
3.95646 3.33586
3.33586 3.63964
3.63964
0.3 0.3 -- -- 4.09830
4.09830 3.08676
3.08676 3.61108
3.61108

Figures
Figures 22 and
and 33 demonstrate
demonstrate how how the
the Young’s
Young’s modulus
modulus of of FG
FG sandwich
sandwich plates
plates varies
varies
with porosity models
with porosity models A, B, and C in terms of volume fraction index and porosity factor,
respectively.
respectively. ItIt is
is interesting
interesting toto observe
observe that
that Young’s
Young’s modulus
modulus varies
varies continuously
continuously at at the
the
interfaces
interfaces for
for Model
Model B, B, whereas
whereas itit varies
varies discontinuously
discontinuouslyfor for Models
Models AA and
and C.
C. For
For all three
three
models,
models, as
as the
the volume
volume fraction
fraction index
index and porosity
porosity factor
factor increase,
increase, the
the variation
variation in Young’s
Young’s
modulus
modulus loses
loses smoothness
smoothness throughout
throughout plate
plate thickness.
thickness.

Figure 2. Variation in Young’s modulus of porous FG sandwich plate for different values of 𝑘 (𝛼 =
Figure 2. Variation in Young’s modulus of porous FG sandwich plate for different values of k
0.1).
(α = 0.1).
Math. Comput. Appl. 2024, 29, 20
Figure 2. Variation in Young’s modulus of porous FG sandwich plate for different values of 𝑘 (𝛼21
11 of =
0.1).

Figure3.
Figure 3. Variation
Variation in
in Young’s
Young’s modulus
modulus of
of porous
porous FG
FG sandwich
sandwich plate
plate for
for different
different porosity factor α𝛼
porosity factor
(𝑘 = 2).
( k = 2).

Inthe
In thecase
caseof
ofFG
FGsandwich
sandwichplatesplateswith
witheven
evenporosity
porosity(Model
(ModelA), A), the
the nondimensional
nondimensional
centraldeflection
central deflectiondistribution
distributionin inaasquare
squareFGFGsandwich
sandwichplate
plateshown
shownin inFigure
Figure4a4asuggests
suggests
thataahigher
that higherporosity
porosityleads
leadsto tolarger
largerdeflections.
deflections.This
Thiscan
canbebe referred
referredto toas as the
the degradation
degradation
inthe
in themodulus
modulusof ofelasticity
elasticityasasaa consequence
consequenceof of high
high porosities,
porosities,which
whichleadsleadstotoaa reduction
reduction
in the bending stiffness of the plate and makes the plate less resistant
in the bending stiffness of the plate and makes the plate less resistant to deflections. to deflections. Fur-
thermore, the deflection does not increase linearly with porosity. The deflection
Furthermore, the deflection does not increase linearly with porosity. The deflection increases increases
in an
in an accelerated manner
manner eveneven with
withequal
equalincrements
incrementsininthe theporosity
porosity coefficient.
coefficient.This in-
This
dicates a arapid
indicates degradation
rapid degradation ininthe
themodulus
modulus ofof
elasticity, and
elasticity, andthus
thusthethe
bending
bending stiffness, as
stiffness,
porosity
as porosity increases. For
increases. Forthethe
cases
casesof of
FGFGsandwich
sandwich plates
plateswith uneven
with uneven porosities
porosities(Model
(ModelB)
and
B) andlinear-uneven
linear-unevenporosities
porosities(Model
(ModelC),C), the
the nondimensional
nondimensional central deflection deflection also
also
increases at higher porosities. However, the increase takes almost a linear fashion with
respect to the porosity coefficient (Figures 5a and 6a).
The nondimensional stress distributions in the studied FG sandwich plate with even
porosities (Model A) are shown in Figure 4b–d. The normal stress shear stresses become
larger for higher porosity coefficients across the middle portion of plate thickness. This
portion varies among the different types of stresses (60%, 33.3%, and 76%) of the plate
thickness in the case of normal stress σ x , shear stress τ xz , and shear stress τ xy , respectively.
However, this trend is reversed beyond that range, i.e., in the upper and lower portions
of plate thickness. In these portions, all types of stresses are reduced when porosity
is increased.
In the case of FG plates with uneven porosities (Model B), the nondimensional central
stresses show almost a similar trend as of Model A with a few differences (Figure 5b–d).
The normal stress σ x , shear stress τ xz , and shear stress τ xy show larger values at higher
porosities in the middle 50%, 33.3%, and 50% of the plate thickness, respectively. The values
of σ x and τ xy reverse twice beyond theses ranges (in the external portions of the thickness).
In addition, the values of τ xz at different porosities converge to one value at the bottom and
top boundaries of the external sheets, while they show higher values at lower porosities in
the middle of the external sheets.
The nondimensional central stresses in FG plates with linear-uneven porosities (Model
C) are observed to be higher at higher porosities in the middle sheet (Figure 6b–d). On the
other hand, the shear stress τ xz is reduced at higher porosities in the external sheets and
converges to one value at the very external faces of the plate for all levels of porosities. As
for the stresses σ x and τ xy , they become inversely proportional with the porosity coefficient
in the external sheets of the plate up to some point (z = 0.4), after which they return to their
original trend again (directly proportional to the porosity coefficient).
Math. Comput. Appl. 2024, 29, x FOR PEER REVIEW 12 of 22
Math. Comput. Appl. 2024, 29, x FOR PEER REVIEW 12 of 22

Math. Comput. Appl. 2024, 29, 20

increases at higher porosities. However, the increase takes almost a linear fashion12with
of 21

respect to at
increases thehigher
porosity coefficient
porosities. (Figuresthe
However, 5a and 6a). takes almost a linear fashion with
increase
respect to the porosity coefficient (Figures 5a and 6a).

Figure 4. The distribution of nondimensional center deflection and stresses in a square FG sandwich
Figure 4. The distribution of nondimensional center deflection and stresses in a square FG sandwich
plate (Model
Figure 4. The A) for different
distribution porosity factor 𝛼center
of nondimensional 2). (a) 𝑤, (b)
(𝑘 = deflection and𝜎stresses
, (c) 𝜏̅ in, a(d) 𝜏̅ . FG sandwich
square
plate (Model A) for different porosity factor α (k = 2). (a) w, (b) σ x , (c) τ xz , (d) τ xy .
plate (Model A) for different porosity factor 𝛼 (𝑘 = 2). (a) 𝑤, (b) 𝜎 , (c) 𝜏̅ , (d) 𝜏̅ .

Figure 5. Cont.
Math. Comput.
Math. Comput. Appl.
Appl. 2024,
2024, 29,
29, 20
x FOR PEER REVIEW 13 of 22
Math. Comput. Appl. 2024, 29, x FOR PEER REVIEW 1313of
of 22
21

Figure5.5. The
The distribution
distribution of
of nondimensional
nondimensional center
center deflection
deflectionand
and stressesin inaa square
square FGFG sandwich
sandwich
Figure
Figure 5. The
plate (Model distribution of nondimensional
B) for different porosity factor 𝛼center
(𝑘 = deflection and𝜎stresses
2). (a) 𝑤, (b) stresses
, (c) 𝜏̅ in, a(d) square
𝜏̅ . FG sandwich
plate
plate (Model
(Model B)B) for
for different
different porosity
porosity factor
factor α𝛼(k(𝑘= 2). w,𝑤,
(a)(a)
= 2). (b)(b)
σ x , 𝜎(c), (c)
τ xz ,𝜏̅(d), τ(d)
xy . 𝜏̅ .

Figure 6. The distribution of nondimensional center deflection and stresses in a square FG sandwich
Figure 6. The distribution of nondimensional center
porosity factor 𝛼 (𝑘 =deflection and stresses
2). (a) 𝑤, (b) in,a(d)
square FG sandwich
plate (Model
Figure C) for different
6. The distribution of nondimensional center deflection and 𝜎stresses
, (c) 𝜏̅in 𝜏̅ . FG
a square sandwich
plate (Model C) for different porosity factor 𝛼 (𝑘 = 2). (a) 𝑤, (b) 𝜎 , (c) 𝜏̅ , (d) 𝜏̅ .
plate (Model C) for different porosity factor α (k = 2). (a) w, (b) σ x , (c) τ xz , (d) τ xy .
 (Model C) are observed to be higher at higher porosities in the middle sheet (Figure 6b–
d). On the other hand, the shear stress 𝜏̅ is reduced at higher porosities in the external
sheets and converges to one value at the very external faces of the plate for all levels of
porosities. As for the stresses 𝜎 and 𝜏̅ , they become inversely proportional with the
Math. Comput. Appl. 2024, 29, 20 porosity coefficient in the external sheets of the plate up to some point (𝑧̅ = 0.4),14after of 21
which they return to their original trend again (directly proportional to the porosity coef-
ficient).
The effect
effect ofof porosity
porosityononthe
thenondimensional
nondimensionalcentral centraldeflection
deflectionis is
compared
compared at at
different
differ-
aspect ratios
ent aspect andand
ratios side-to-thickness
side-to-thickness ratios
ratiosof of
thethe
plate for
plate forModels
ModelsA, A,B,B,and
andCC as
as shown
in Figure 7, Figure
Figure 8,8, and
and Figure
Figure 9,9, respectively.
respectively. The indicated deflection decreases at
higher values of the aspect
aspect ratio
ratio and
and atat lower
lower values
values of
of the
the side-to-thickness
side-to-thickness ratio.
ratio. This
fact is referred to as the increase in bending stiffness in both cases. However,
is referred to as the increase in bending stiffness in both cases. However, regardless regardless of
the values of the aspect ratio and the side-to-thickness ratio, the nondimensional
of the values of the aspect ratio and the side-to-thickness ratio, the nondimensional central central
deflection
deflection isis always
always smaller
smaller at
at aa higher
higher porosity.
porosity.

Figure 7. The distribution of nondimensional center deflection in a square FG sandwich plate (𝑘 =

Math. Comput. Appl. 2024, 29, x FOR PEER REVIEW
Figure 7. The distribution of nondimensional center deflection in a square FG sandwich plate15(kof= 22
2)
2) (Model A) as a function of the following: (a) aspect ratio 𝑎/𝑏; (b) side-to-thickness ratio 𝑎/ℎ.
(Model A) as a function of the following: (a) aspect ratio a/b; (b) side-to-thickness ratio a/h.

Figure 8. The distribution of nondimensional center deflection in a square FG sandwich plate

Figure 8. The distribution of nondimensional center deflection in a square FG sandwich plate (Model
(Model B) as a function of the following: (a) aspect ratio 𝑎/𝑏; (b) side-to-thickness ratio 𝑎/ℎ.
B) as a function of the following: (a) aspect ratio a/b; (b) side-to-thickness ratio a/h.
Math. Comput. Appl. 2024, 29, 20
Figure 8. The distribution of nondimensional center deflection in a square FG sandwich15plate of 21
(Model B) as a function of the following: (a) aspect ratio 𝑎/𝑏; (b) side-to-thickness ratio 𝑎/ℎ.

Figure 9. The distribution of nondimensional center deflection in a square FG sandwich plate (𝑘 =

Figure 9. The distribution of nondimensional center deflection in a square FG sandwich plate (k = 2)
2) (Model C) as a function of the following: (a) aspect ratio a/b; (b) side-to-thickness ratio a/h.
(Model C) as a function of the following: (a) aspect ratio a/b; (b) side-to-thickness ratio a/h.
The normal
The normal stress
stressdistribution
distributionacross
across thethethickness
thickness of the of plate is displayed
the plate in Figure
is displayed in
10b for the different porosity models at a fixed 𝛼 = 0.25. As the
Figure 10b for the different porosity models at a fixed α = 0.25. As the length-to-thickness length-to-thickness ratio
increases,
ratio the normal
increases, stressstress
the normal (𝜎 ) slightly decreases
(σ x ) slightly in all models.
decreases in all models.AcrossAcross
the external layers,
the external
the normal stress (𝜎 ) is highest in Model B followed by Model A,
layers, the normal stress (σ x ) is highest in Model B followed by Model A, the perfect model, the perfect model, then
Model
then C upCtoup
Model some point.point.
to some Beyond this point,
Beyond this trend
this point, is reversed.
this trend However,
is reversed. However,in theinmid-
the
dle nonporous layer, the normal stress (𝜎
middle nonporous layer, the normal stress (σ x ) is highest in Model A followed by Model B,
) is highest in Model A followed by Model B,
Model C,
Model C, then
then the
the perfect
perfect model.
model.
The nondimensional
The nondimensional shear shear stress
stress (τ(𝜏̅ xz)) is
is plotted
plotted against
against the depth 𝑧̅z of
the depth of the
the plate
plate inin
Figure 10c for different porosity models at a constant 𝛼 = 0.25.
Figure 10c for different porosity models at a constant α = 0.25. As the length-to-thicknessAs the length-to-thickness
ratio of
ratio of the
the plate
plate increases,
increases, most
most values
values of of the
the shear
shear stress
stress (τ (𝜏̅xz )) increase
increase except
except forfor aa few
few
values. Across
values. Across the
the external
external layers,
layers, the
the perfect
perfect model
model and and Model
Model C C exhibit
exhibit higher
higher stresses
stresses
comparedto
compared tothe
theother
othermodels
modelsoverover most
most of of
thethe external
external layers.
layers. OnOn thethe other
other hand,
hand, across
across the
the middle nonporous layer, the maximum shear stress (𝜏̅ )
middle nonporous layer, the maximum shear stress (τ xz ) is apparent in Model A followedis apparent in Model A fol-
lowed
by Modelby C,Model
Model C, B,
Model B, and
and then thethen the perfect
perfect model. model.
Figure 10d shows that across the thickness, the curves of τ xy indicate higher shear
stress values for the perfect model and Model C in the external porous layers compared to
Model A. However, the opposite trend can be noticed in the middle nonporous layer.
It is worth mentioning that the main challenge in sandwich structures is the sudden
shift in material properties throughout the interfaces between the face layers and the core.
The smoothly and continuously varying material properties of FG materials eliminate this
problem by allowing for the continuous change in the material properties at the interfaces.
However, in the presence of even (Model A) and linear-uneven (Model C) porosities, the
variation in axial stress and transverse shear stress loses its smoothness and becomes
slightly discontinuous at the interfaces.
The change in the nondimensional central deflection according to the change in plate
geometry is illustrated in Figure 11. The nondimensional deflection peaks at an aspect
ratio of 1 as shown in Figure 11a, which is the case of square plates and starts to decrease
at higher aspect ratios. At higher aspect ratios, the width decreases which magnifies the
bending stiffness of the plate, which reduces the central deflection. In Figure 11b, it can be
observed that the nondimensional deflection increases at higher length-to-thickness ratios
(a/h) because higher values of a/h means lower bending stiffness of the plate. Generally
speaking, regardless of the values of a/b and a/h, the nondimensional central deflection is
always highest for Model A followed by Model B, Model C, and then the perfect model.
 It is worth mentioning that the main challenge in sandwich structures is the sudden
shift in material properties throughout the interfaces between the face layers and the core.
The smoothly and continuously varying material properties of FG materials eliminate this
problem by allowing for the continuous change in the material properties at the interfaces.
However, in the presence of even (Model A) and linear-uneven (Model C) porosities, the
Math. Comput. Appl. 2024, 29, 20 16 of 21
variation in axial stress and transverse shear stress loses its smoothness and becomes
slightly discontinuous at the interfaces.

Math. Comput. Appl. 2024, 29, x FOR PEER REVIEW 17 of 22

Figure 10. The distribution of nondimensional center deflection and stresses in a square FG sand-
Figure 10. The distribution of nondimensional center deflection and stresses in a square FG sandwich
speaking, regardless
wich plate for different of the values
porosity 𝑎/𝑏
of (𝑘
models (𝛼 =𝑎/ℎ,
= 2)and 0.25).the 𝑤, (b) 𝜎 , (c) 𝜏̅ ,central
(a)nondimensional (d) 𝜏̅ deflection
.
plate for different porosity models (k = 2) (α = 0.25). (a) w, (b) σ x , (c) τ xz , (d) τ xy .
is always highest for Model A followed by Model B, Model C, and then the perfect model.
The change in the nondimensional central deflection according to the change in plate
geometry is illustrated in Figure 11. The nondimensional deflection peaks at an aspect
ratio of 1 as shown in Figure 11a, which is the case of square plates and starts to decrease
at higher aspect ratios. At higher aspect ratios, the width decreases which magnifies the
bending stiffness of the plate, which reduces the central deflection. In Figure 11b, it can be
observed that the nondimensional deflection increases at higher length-to-thickness ratios
(𝑎/ℎ) because higher values of 𝑎/ℎ means lower bending stiffness of the plate. Generally

Figure 11. The distribution of nondimensional center deflection in a square FG sandwich plate for
Figure 11. The distribution of nondimensional center deflection in a square FG sandwich plate for
different porosity models as a function of the following: (a) aspect ratio 𝑎/𝑏; (b) side-to-thickness
different porosity
ratio 𝑎/ℎ models
(𝛼 = 0.25, as a function of the following: (a) aspect ratio a/b; (b) side-to-thickness
𝑘 = 2).
ratio a/h (α = 0.25, k = 2).
The effect of varying 𝑘 values defined in the volume fraction equations (Equation
(2)) on the nondimensional stresses and central deflection is displayed in Figure 12. Model
B with 𝛼 = 0.1 is selected for the comparison. Higher values of 𝑘 result in higher central
defections. The normal stress (𝜎 ) also increases at higher 𝑘 values across the middle non-
porous layer. This trend is reversed twice in the external porous layers. The shear stress
(𝜏̅ ) curves associated with 𝑘 = 1, 2 are close to each other and show much higher values
 Figure 11. The distribution of nondimensional center deflection in a square FG sandwich plate for
Math. Comput. Appl. 2024, 29, 20 17 of 21
different porosity models as a function of the following: (a) aspect ratio 𝑎/𝑏; (b) side-to-thickness
ratio 𝑎/ℎ (𝛼 = 0.25, 𝑘 = 2).

The effect
effect of varyingk 𝑘values
ofvarying values defined
defined in in
thethe
volume
volume fraction equations
fraction equations(Equation (2))
(Equation
on
(2))the nondimensional
on the nondimensional stresses and
stresses andcentral
centraldeflection
deflectionis isdisplayed
displayedininFigure
Figure12.12. Model
B with α𝛼 =
B with = 0.1
0.1 isisselected
selectedfor
for the
the comparison.
comparison. Higher Higher values
valuesof of 𝑘k result
result in
in higher
higher central
central
defections. The normal stress
defections. The normal stress (𝜎 ) also (σ x ) also increases at higher k values across
increases at higher 𝑘 values across the middle the middle
non-
nonporous
porous layer. layer.
This This
trendtrend is reversed
is reversed twicetwice
in theinexternal
the external
porousporous
layers.layers. The stress
The shear shear
stress (τ xz ) curves
(𝜏̅ ) curves associated
associated = 1, 2k =
with 𝑘with are1,close
2 aretoclose
eachtoother
eachand other
showandmuch
showhigher
much higher
values
values
comparedcompared to thestress
to the shear shearcurve
stressassociated
curve associated
with 𝑘 = with k = 4 shows
4 which which shows accelerated
accelerated reduc-
reduction
tion in the in the stress
shear shear values
stress values
at higher at higher k values.
𝑘 values. In theIn theofcase
case the of the stress
shear shear (𝜏̅
stress (τ xy ),
), lower
lower k values lead to lower shear stress across the middle nonporous
𝑘 values lead to lower shear stress across the middle nonporous layer. This trend is re- layer. This trend is
reversed twice in the external porous
versed twice in the external porous layers. layers.

Math. Comput. Appl. 2024, 29, x FOR PEER REVIEW 18 of 22

Figure 12.
Figure 12. The
Thedistribution
distributionofofnondimensional
nondimensional center
center deflection
deflection andand stresses
stresses in ainsquare
a square FG sand-
FG sandwich
wich plate with ceramic core (Model B) for different values of 𝑘 (𝛼 = 0.1). (a) 𝑤, (b) 𝜎 , (c) 𝜏̅ , (d)
plate with ceramic core (Model B) for different values of k (α = 0.1). (a) w, (b) σ x , (c) τ xz , (d) τ xy .
𝜏̅ .
5.4.2. Sandwich Plates with Metal Core
5.4.2.The
Sandwich Plates
variation with Metal Core
in nondimensional central deflection and nondimensional stresses across
The variation
the thickness in nondimensional
for Model central
B is shown in Figure deflection
13 with the coreand nondimensional
layer made of metal stresses
instead
across the thickness for Model B is shown in Figure 13 with the core
of ceramic. The deflection in Figure 13a increases linearly with the porosity layer made of metal
coefficient α.
instead
The of ceramic.
increase in the The deflection
deflection in Figure
is due 13a increases
to the reduction linearly
in the moduluswithofthe porosity
elasticity ofcoef-
as a
ficient 𝛼. Theofincrease
consequence in the
increasing thedeflection is due
porosity. All to the
types reduction
of stresses in theas
increase modulus of elasticity
α gets higher in the
of aslayer
core a consequence
and continue ofwith
increasing
the samethetrend
porosity.
in theAll typeslayers
external of stresses increase
up to some point 𝛼 gets
asbeyond
higher in the core layer and continue with the same trend in the external layers up to some
point beyond which the trend flips twice across the external layers. As for the shear stress
𝜏̅ , the stress values at different porosity coefficient values 𝛼 converge to a single point
at the external surfaces of the plate. Moreover, for sandwich plates with a metal core, the
variation across the thickness of axial stress and transverse shear stress show a large jump
 5.4.2. Sandwich Plates with Metal Core
The variation in nondimensional central deflection and nondimensional stresses
across the thickness for Model B is shown in Figure 13 with the core layer made of metal
instead of ceramic. The deflection in Figure 13a increases linearly with the porosity coef-
Math. Comput. Appl. 2024, 29, 20
ficient 𝛼. The increase in the deflection is due to the reduction in the modulus of elasticity 18 of 21
of as a consequence of increasing the porosity. All types of stresses increase as 𝛼 gets
higher in the core layer and continue with the same trend in the external layers up to some
which the trend
point beyond flips the
which twice across
trend flipsthe external
twice layers.
across As for the
the external shear
layers. Asstress
for the , the stress
τ xzshear stress
values at different porosity coefficient values converge to a single point at
𝜏̅ , the stress values at different porosity coefficient values 𝛼 converge to a single point
α the external
surfaces of the plate.
at the external Moreover,
surfaces for sandwich
of the plate. Moreover,plates with a metal
for sandwich core,
plates theavariation
with metal core,across
the
the thickness of axial stress and transverse shear stress show a large jump at the
variation across the thickness of axial stress and transverse shear stress show a large jump interfaces
and
at thealso severe discontinuity.
interfaces and also severe discontinuity.

Math. Comput. Appl. 2024, 29, x FOR PEER REVIEW 19 of 22

Figure
Figure 13. The distribution
13. The distributionof
ofnondimensional
nondimensionalcenter
centerdeflection
deflection
andand stresses
stresses in ainsquare
a squareFG FG sand-
sandwich
wich plate with metal core (Model B) for different porosity factor 𝛼 (𝑘 = 2). (a) 𝑤, (b) 𝜎 , (c) 𝜏̅ ,
plate with metal core (Model B) for different porosity factor α (k = 2). (a) w, (b) σ x , (c) τ xz , (d) τ xy .
(d) 𝜏̅ .
6. Conclusions
6. Conclusions
The present study presents a comprehensive investigation of the static bending behav-
ior ofThe present study
functionally gradedpresents a comprehensive
sandwich investigation
plates. These plates of the static
are composed bending be-
of a homogeneous
havior of functionally
core along graded sandwich
with two functionally gradedplates. These plates
face sheets. are composed
Two distinct cases are of considered,
a homoge-
neous
namely core
evenalong
andwith
uneventwoporosity
functionally graded across
distribution face sheets. Two distinct
the thickness. Thecases are consid-
mechanical load
ered,
appliednamely
to theeven
plateand uneven porosity
is sinusoidally distribution
distributed. across the thickness.
The displacement The mechanical
field is determined using
load applied to the
a four-variable plate
shear is sinusoidally
deformation distributed.
theory, which has The displacement
the advantage of field is determined
having only four
using a four-variable shear deformation theory, which has the advantage of
unknowns, unlike other shear deformation theories. In summary, this research highlights having only
four unknowns,
the following unlike other shear deformation theories. In summary, this research high-
points:
lights
• Employing the points:
the following four-variable shear deformation theory proved its soundness since it
• yielded similar
Employing results to those
the four-variable found
shear in the literature.
deformation theory proved its soundness since it
yielded similar results to those found in the literature.
• The current findings exhibit a strong similarity to the outcomes obtained through the
Third Shear Deformation Theory (TSDT).
• Higher porosity leads to larger deflections. This can be referred to as the degradation
in the modulus of elasticity as a consequence of high porosities, which leads to a re-
duction in the bending stiffness of the plate. The central deflection is further magni-
Math. Comput. Appl. 2024, 29, 20 19 of 21

• The current findings exhibit a strong similarity to the outcomes obtained through the
Third Shear Deformation Theory (TSDT).
• Higher porosity leads to larger deflections. This can be referred to as the degradation in
the modulus of elasticity as a consequence of high porosities, which leads to a reduction
in the bending stiffness of the plate. The central deflection is further magnified at
lower aspect ratios and at higher side-to-thickness ratios due to the reduction in the
plate bending stiffness in these cases.
• At the same porosity coefficient (α), the central deflection is highest in the case of Model
A, lower in Model B, and lowest in Model C. This is due to the gradual reduction in
the modulus of elasticity in the porosity models from Model C down to Model A. In
addition, Higher values of k (defined in the volume fraction functions) result in higher
central defections.
• When the core layer in Model B is made of metal instead of ceramic, the nondimen-
sional central deflection increases linearly with the porosity coefficient α. The increase
in the deflection is due to the reduction in the modulus of elasticity of as a consequence
of increasing the porosity.
• The stress distributions differ according to the porosity models as well as the value of
the porosity coefficient. In addition, the trend exhibited in the middle homogenous
layer can be maintained or reversed once or twice in the external FG layers.
• The distributions of all stress types experience a jump at the interfaces between differ-
ent layers in the case of sandwich plates with a metal core.
The findings of this research can contribute to the development of plates with advanced
materials with superior mechanical properties and performance taking into consideration the
porosity intensity in the constituting materials that would generate in the manufacturing phase.

Author Contributions: R.A.A.: Writing—original draft and editing, Supervision, Validation, software,
Methodology, Investigation, Formal analysis, Conceptualization. R.H.A.: Writing—original draft,
Validation, Methodology, Data curation. All authors have read and agreed to the published version
of the manuscript.
Funding: This research received no external funding.
Data Availability Statement: No data were used for the research described in the article.
Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

Appendix A

a11 = A1 α2 + A24 β2 , a12 = ( A4 + A24 )αβ, a13 = −α[ A2 α2 + ( A5 + 2A25 ) β2 ],

a14 = −α[ A3 α2 + ( A6 + 2A26 ) β2 ], a15 = −αA7 , a22 = A24 α2 + A8 β2 ,
a23 = − β[ A9 β2 + ( A5 + 2A25 )α2 ], a24 = − β[ A10 β2 + ( A6 + 2A26 )α2 ],
a25 = − βA11 , a33 = A12 α4 + 2( A14 + 2A27 )α2 β2 + A17 β4 , (A1)
a34 = A13 α4 + 2( A15 + 2A28 )α2 β2 + A18 β4 , a35 = A16 α2 + A19 β2 ,
a44 = A20 α4 + A32 α2 + 2( A21 + 2A29 )α2 β2 + A30 β4 + A22 β4 ,
a45 = ( A22 + A33 )α2 + ( A23 + A31 ) β2 , a55 = −( A34 α2 + A35 β2 + A36 ).

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