On the characterization of the free vibrations behavior of multiscale composite plates

Multiscale functionally graded materials are characterized by possessing a continuous varying distribution of the micro and nano inclusion reinforcement particles through the matrix material. This continuity guarantees a smooth transition of material properties through the spatial domain of the composite and provides a great suitability to achieve specified structural responses. From the manufacturing point of view as well as from the computational perspective, these materials can be thought as effectively having a continuous variation of their properties, or as being constituted by a stacking of different layers, each having constant properties although following the continuous trend variation profile. Due to this ability to tailor the material to be used, and thus to obtain different structural responses, it is important to characterize the relative influence of material and geometrical parameters. These influences are investigated through a detailed parametric study.