Nicholas Fantuzzi

Bio: Nicholas Fantuzzi is an academic researcher from University of Bologna. The author has contributed to research in topics: Finite element method & Quadrature (mathematics). The author has an hindex of 47, co-authored 153 publications receiving 5924 citations. Previous affiliations of Nicholas Fantuzzi include Chongqing University.

Effect of agglomeration on the natural frequencies of functionally graded carbon nanotube-reinforced laminated composite doubly-curved shells

Abstract: This paper aims at investigating the effect of Carbon Nanotube (CNT) agglomeration on the free vibrations of laminated composite doubly-curved shells and panels reinforced by CNTs. The great performances of doubly-curved structures are joined with the excellent mechanical properties of CNTs. Several laminations schemes and various CNT exponential distributions along the thickness of the structures are considered. Thus, it is evident that the shell dynamic behavior can be affected by many parameters which characterize the reinforcing phase. A widespread parametric study is performed in order to show the natural frequency variation. The general theoretical model for shell structures is based on the so-called Carrera Unified Formulation (CUF) which allows to consider several Higher-order Shear Deformations Theories (HSDTs). In addition, a complete characterization of the mechanical properties of CNTs is presented. The governing equations for the free vibration analysis are solved numerically by means of the well-known Generalized Differential Quadrature (GDQ) method due to its accuracy, stability and reliability features.

Free vibrations of free-form doubly-curved shells made of functionally graded materials using higher-order equivalent single layer theories

Abstract: The theoretical framework of the present manuscript covers the dynamic analysis of doubly-curved shell structures using the generalized displacement field of the Carrera Unified Formulation (CUF), including the Zig-Zag (ZZ) effect given by the Murakami’s function. The partial differential system of equations is solved by using the Generalized Differential Quadrature (GDQ) method. This numerical approach has been proven to be accurate, reliable and stable in several engineering applications. The current paper focuses on Functionally Graded (FG) doubly-curved shells and panels using various higher-order equivalent single layer theories, introduced and applied for the first time by the authors to completely doubly-curved shell structures, and different through-the-thickness volume fraction distributions, such as four-parameter power law, Weibull and exponential distributions. Moreover, the classic theory of mixtures is compared to the Mori–Tanaka scheme for the calculation of the mechanical properties of the materials. In particular, the numerical applications presented in this work are related to particular FG configurations in which it is possible to model a soft-core structure using a continuous variation of the mechanical properties of the materials at hand. The natural frequencies and mode shapes of several structures are presented and compared to numerical solutions taken from the literature.

Introduction to the Finite Element Method

Abstract: This chapter introduces the finite element method (FEM) as a tool for solution of classical electromagnetic problems. Although we discuss the main points in the application of the finite element method to electromagnetic design, including formulation and implementation, those who seek deeper understanding of the finite element method should consult some of the works listed in the bibliography section.

Review of current trends in research and applications of sandwich structures

Abstract: The review outlines modern trends in theoretical developments, novel designs and modern applications of sandwich structures. The most recent work published at the time of writing of this review is considered, older sources are listed only on as-needed basis. The review begins with the discussion on the analytical models and methods of analysis of sandwich structures as well as representative problems utilizing or comparing these models. Novel designs of sandwich structures is further elucidated concentrating on miscellaneous cores, introduction of nanotubes and smart materials in the elements of a sandwich structure as well as using functionally graded designs. Examples of problems experienced by developers and designers of sandwich structures, including typical damage, response under miscellaneous loads, environmental effects and fire are considered. Sample applications of sandwich structures included in the review concentrate on aerospace, civil and marine engineering, electronics and biomedical areas. Finally, the authors suggest a list of areas where they envision a pressing need in further research.

An efficient and simple higher order shear and normal deformation theory for functionally graded material (FGM) plates

Abstract: In this paper, an efficient and simple higher order shear and normal deformation theory is presented for functionally graded material (FGM) plates. By dividing the transverse displacement into bending, shear and thickness stretching parts, the number of unknowns and governing equations for the present theory is reduced, significantly facilitating engineering analysis. Indeed, the number of unknown functions involved in the present theory is only five, as opposed to six or even greater numbers in the case of other shear and normal deformation theories. The present theory accounts for both shear deformation and thickness stretching effects by a hyperbolic variation of all displacements across the thickness, and satisfies the stress-free boundary conditions on the upper and lower surfaces of the plate without requiring any shear correction factor. Equations of motion are derived from Hamilton’s principle. Analytical solutions for the bending and free vibration analysis are obtained for simply supported plates. The obtained results are compared with 3-dimensional and quasi-3-dimensional solutions and those predicted by other plate theories. It can be concluded that the present theory is not only accurate but also simple in predicting the bending and free vibration responses of functionally graded plates.

Mechanics of composite materials

Abstract: INTRODUCTION TO COMPOSITE MATERIALS Chapter Objectives Introduction Classi?cation Recycling Fiber-Reinforced Composites Mechanics Terminology Summary Key Terms Exercise Set References MACROMECHANICAL ANALYSIS OF A LAMINA Chapter Objectives Introduction Review of De?nitions Hooke's Law for Different Types of Materials Hooke's Law for a Two-Dimensional Unidirectional Lamina Hooke's Law for a Two-Dimensional Angle Lamina Engineering Constants of an Angle Lamina Invariant Form of Stiffness and Compliance Matrices for an Angle Lamina Strength Failure Theories of an Angle Lamina Hygrothermal Stresses and Strains in a Lamina Summary Key Terms Exercise Set References APPENDIX A: MATRIX ALGEBRA Key Terms APPENDIX B: TRANSFORMATION OF STRESSES AND STRAINS Transformation of Stress Transformation of Strains Key Terms MICROMECHANICAL ANALYSIS OF A LAMINA Chapter Objectives Introduction Volume and Mass Fractions, Density, and Void Content Evaluation of the Four Elastic Moduli Ultimate Strengths of a Unidirectional Lamina Coefficients of Thermal Expansion Coefficients of Moisture Expansion Summary Key Terms Exercise Set References MACROMECHANICAL ANALYSIS OF LAMINATES Chapter Objectives Introduction Laminate Code Stress-Strain Relations for a Laminate In-Plane and Flexural Modulus of a Laminate Hygrothermal Effects in a Laminate Summary Key Terms Exercise Set References FAILURE, ANALYSIS, AND DESIGN OF LAMINATES Chapter Objectives Introduction Special Cases of Laminates Failure Criterion for a Laminate Design of a Laminated Composite Other Mechanical Design Issues Summary Key Terms Exercise Set References BENDING OF BEAMS Chapter Objectives Introduction Symmetric Beams Nonsymmetric Beams Summary Key Terms Exercise Set References INDEX