A size-dependent functionally graded sinusoidal plate model based on a modified couple stress theory

A size-dependent model for bending and free vibration of functionally graded plate is developed based on the modified couple stress theory and sinusoidal shear deformation theory. In the former theory, the small scale effect is taken into consideration, while the effect of shear deformation is accounted for in the latter theory. The equations of motion and boundary conditions are derived from Hamilton’s principle. Analytical solutions for the bending and vibration problems of simply supported plates are obtained. Numerical examples are presented to illustrate the influences of small scale on the responses of functionally graded microplates. The results indicate that the inclusion of small scale effects results in an increase in plate stiffness, and consequently, leads to a reduction of deflection and an increase in frequency. Such small scale effects are significant when the plate thickness is small, but become negligible with increasing plate thickness.