In this paper, two-node size-dependent axisymmetric shell element formulation is developed by using thin conical shell model in the place of the beam model, which is used in previous research and using the modified couple stress theory in the place of the classical continuum theory. Since classical continuum theory is unable to correctly compute stiffness and account for size effects in micro/nanostructures, higher order continuum theories such as modified couple stress theory have become quite popular. The mass stiffness matrix and geometric stiffness matrix for axisymmetric shell element are developed in this paper, and by means of size-dependent finite element formulation it is extended to more precisely account for nanotube buckling. The results have indicated using the two-node axisymmetric shell element, where the rigidity of the nano-shell is greater than that in the classical, and the critical axial buckling loads obtained from couple stress theory are greater than that of classical, which is due to the presence of one size parameter in couple stress theory. The findings also indicate that the developed size-dependent axisymmetric shell element is able to analyze the buckling of cylindrical and conical shells and also circular plate, which is reliable for simulating micro/nanostructures and can be used for the analysis of size effect and has desirable convergence characteristic. Besides, in addition to reducing the number of elements required, using axisymmetric shell element also increases convergence speed and accuracy.
