Design Optimization of Flexural and Eigenvalue Characteristics of Perforated and Skewed Bio-Composite Functionally Graded Panels

Abstract

The development of novel materials is of prime importance in the biomedical areas, especially for bone replacements and dental implants. This study uses finite element modeling of skewed functionally graded bio-composite structures with perforations to examine flexural and eigenfrequency responses. Here, the bio-composite structure comprises Titanium (Ti) and Hydroxyapatite (HAp). Voigt’s micromechanical material model via power-law distribution and Representative volume element (RVE) method is utilized to compute the in-homogenous material properties in the thickness direction. The strain field is based on the equivalent single-layer first-order shear deformation theory with five degrees of freedom, and the governing equations are obtained using principle of minimum potential energy. A computer algorithm is developed in a 2D finite element platform using eight-noded quadrilateral elements. The mesh stability of the skewed and perforated structure is confirmed through the smart mesh technique, and the present model’s accuracy is demonstrated by comparing it with the available reported results. Numerous examples reveal the significance of material gradation, skewness, aspect ratios, perforations, and support conditions on bio-composite functionally graded structures’ flexural and eigenfrequency responses. Furthermore, parametric optimization is conducted to minimize the flexural response and maximize the fundamental frequency by employing the response surface methodology (RSM), followed by determining optimal process parameters and valuable findings.