The classical continuum theory fails to simulate the size effect in which the stiffness increases as the size of the structure decreases. The couple stress theory is one of the higher-order continuum theory that considers size effect by introducing th...
The classical continuum theory fails to simulate the size effect in which the stiffness increases as the size of the structure decreases. The couple stress theory is one of the higher-order continuum theory that considers size effect by introducing the couple stress as additional resistance to deformation in addition to the stress.
In this study, finite element buckling analysis is performed based on the couple stress theory. The beam and shell element are developed based on the couple stress theory. The critical load calculated by the couple stress theory is much larger than the critical load calculated by the classical continuum theory. In order to properly predict the behavior of micro/nano structures considering the size effect, a structural analysis based on the couple stress theory or other higher-order continuum theories should be performed.