Finite difference method for buckling analysis of tapered Timoshenko beam made of functionally graded material

This paper addresses the linear buckling behavior of tapered Timoshenko beams made of axially functionally graded material (AFGM). Material properties of the nonprismatic Timoshenko beam vary continuously along the length of the member according to power law as well as exponential law. Based on Timoshenko beam assumption and using small displacements theory, the linear equilibrium equations are adopted from the energy principle for functionally graded nonuniform Timoshenko beams related to constant compressive axial load. The resulting system of stability equations are strongly coupled due to the presence of transverse deflection and angle of rotation. The differential equations are then uncoupled and lead to a single homogeneous differential equation where only bending rotation is present. The finite difference method (FDM) is then selected to numerically solve the resulting secondorder differential equation with variable coefficients and determine the critical buckling loads. Two numerical examples are finally conducted to demonstrate the performance and efficiency of this mathematical procedure. The obtained results are contrasted with accessible numerical and analytical benchmarks.