Stability analysis of a rotationally restrained microbar embedded in an elastic matrix using strain gradient elasticity

Abstract

The buckling of rotationally restrained microbars embedded in an elastic matrix is studied within the framework of strain gradient elasticity theory. The elastic matrix is modeled in this study as Winkler's one-parameter elastic matrix. Fourier sine series with a Fourier coefficient is used for describing the deflection of the microbar. An eigenvalue problem is obtained for buckling modes with the aid of implementing Stokes' transformation to force boundary conditions. This mathematical model bridges the gap between rigid and the restrained boundary conditions. The influences of rotational restraints, small scale parameter and surrounding elastic matrix on the critical buckling load are discussed and compared with those available in the literature. It is concluded from analytical results that the critical buckling load of microbar is dependent upon rotational restraints, surrounding elastic matrix and the material scale parameter. Similarly, the dependencies of the critical buckling load on material scale parameter, surrounding elastic medium and rotational restraints are significant.