This study investigated the static bending behavior of functionally graded carbon nanotube-reinforced composite (FG-CNTRC) microbeams supported on an elastic foundation. The proposed model was formulated by coupling higher-order shear deformation beam theories (HoSDBTs) with the modified couple stress theory (MCST). Four distinct CNT distribution patterns within the polymer matrix were considered. Using Hamilton’s principle, governing equations and boundary conditions for simply-supported microbeams were derived and solved analytically. This comprehensive parametric study explored the effects of the material length scale, CNT volume fraction, aspect ratio, foundation stiffness (Winkler and Pasternak models), and CNT gradation on bending stiffness. Results revealed that all parameters notably influenced the mechanical response, with key roles played by size-dependent effects and elastic foundation interactions. The proposed MCST-enhanced HoSDBT model effectively captures size-dependent behaviors, rendering it suitable for the design and optimization of FG-CNTRC micro-devices.
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