A novel hyperbolic integral-Quasi-3D theory for flexural response of laminated composite plates

This paper investigates the flexural analysis of isotropic, transversely isotropic, and laminated composite plates using a new higher-order normal and shear deformation theory. In the present theory, only five unknown functions are involved compared to six or more unknowns used in the other similar theories. The developed theory does not need a shear correction factor. It can satisfy the zero traction boundary conditions on the top and the bottom surfaces of the plate as well as account for sufficient distribution of the transverse shear strains. The thickness stretching effect is considered in the computation. A simply supported was considered on all edges of the plate. The plate is subjected to uniform and sinusoidal distributed load in the static analysis. Laminated composite, isotropic, and transversely isotropic plates are considered. The governing equations are obtained utilizing the virtual work principle. The differential equations are solved via Navier’s procedure. The results obtained from the developed theory are compared with other higher-order theories considered in the previous studies and 3D elasticity solutions. The results showed that the proposed theory accurately and effectively predicts the bidirectional bending responses of laminated composite plates. Several parametric studies are presented to illustrate the various parameters influencing the static response of the laminated composite plates.