Modeling of a sandwich beam with viscoelastic core partially supported by elastic foundation under moving load

Abstract This research presents a novel investigation into the dynamic response of a sandwich beam distinguished by a viscoelastic core and functionally graded graphene platelet‐reinforced composite (FG‐GPLRC) face sheets. Notably, this study marks the first exploration of the impact of a partial Winkler elastic foundation on this configuration. Every nanocomposite layer consists of a laminate in which graphene platelets (GPLs) are evenly dispersed and arranged in a random orientation. Homogenization of FG‐GPLRC face sheets follows the Halpin–Tsai micromechanical rule, and their constitutive behavior adheres to the Hooke law. The viscoelastic core is modeled using the Kelvin–Voigt constitutive law. The first‐order sandwich theory defines the sandwich structure's displacements. This theory considers both shear deformations and rotary inertias for all sandwich layers. The problem is tackled through the Chebyshev–Ritz method and the Newmark time marching technique. A comprehensive verification analysis is conducted by comparing the findings with other existing experimental, numerical, and analytical results found in the literature. This combined approach reveals compelling insights into the interplay of sandwich composition, geometry, and boundary conditions. Highlights Viscoelastic core effectively dampens dynamic responses in sandwich beams. Doubling face sheet thickness reduces maximum deflection by 31%. Halving core thickness leads to a 53% reduction in dynamic deformation. 1% GPL reinforcement by weight reduces transverse displacement by 44%. Extending elastic foundation decreases deflection by 25% but shows diminishing returns.