Stability of Spherical Shells on Elastic and Viscoelastic Foundations

Abstract

Buckling analyses of complete spherical shells resting on Pasternak type elastic and viscoelastic foundations are considered. Exxpressions for critical buckling stresses are obtained using the differential equation of stability. Variation of critical buckling stress with foundation parameters is studied. The coefficient of buckling stress is found to increase gradually with the first foundation parameter (Ι) and rapidly with the second foundation parameter (μ). Buckling of the complete spherical shell is ruled out if the radius to thickness ratio is less than 15. Analyses find application in the design of spherical shells filled with elastic and viscoelastic materials as well as in the study of behavior of the Earth's crust.