Shell structures are used in all phases of structures, from space
vehicles to deep submergence hulls, from nuclear reactors to domes on
sport arenas and civic buildings. With new materials and manufacturing
methods, curved thin walled structures are being used increasingly.
This text is a graduate course in the theory of shells. It covers shells
of isotropic materials, such as metal alloys and plastics, and shells of
composite materials, such as fibre reinforced polymer, metal or ceramic
matrix materials. It provides the essential information for an
understanding of the underlying theory, and solution of some of the
basic problems. It also provides a basis to study the voluminous shell
literature. Beyond being primarily a textbook, it is intended also for
self study by practising engineers who would like to learn more about
the behaviour of shells.
The book has two parts: Part I deals with shells of isotropic materials.
In this part the mathematical formulations are introduced involving
curvilinear coordinates. The techniques of solutions and resulting
behavior is compared to planar thin walled isotropic structures such as
plates and beams.
Part II then treats the behavior of shells, involving anisotropic
composite materials, so widely used today. The analysis involves the
complications due to the many elastic constants, effects of transverse
shear deformation, thermal thickening and offer effects arising from the
properties of composite materials.