A simple first-order shear deformation theory for laminated composite plates

Abstract

In this paper, a simple first-order shear deformation theory is presented for laminated composite plates. Unlike the existing first-order shear deformation theory, the present one contains only four unknowns and has strong similarities with the classical plate theory in many aspects such as equations of motion, boundary conditions, and stress resultant expressions. Equations of motion and boundary conditions are derived from Hamilton's principle. Analytical solutions of simply supported antisymmetric cross-ply and angle-ply laminates are obtained and the results are compared with the exact three-dimensional (3D) solutions and those predicted by existing theories. Comparison studies show that..