Generalized hybrid quasi-3D shear deformation theory for the static analysis of advanced composite plates

This paper presents a generalized hybrid quasi-3D shear deformation theory for the bending analysis of advanced composite plates such as functionally graded plates (FGPs). Many 6DOF hybrid shear deformation theories with stretching effect included, can be derived from the present generalized formulation. All these theories account for an adequate distribution of transverse shear strains through the plate thickness and tangential stress-free boundary conditions on the plate boundary surfaces not requiring thus a shear correction factor. The generalized governing equations of a functionally graded (FG) plate and boundary conditions are derived by employing the principle of virtual work. Navier-type analytical solution is obtained for FGP subjected to transverse load for simply supported boundary conditions. Numerical examples of the new quasi-3D HSDTs (non-polynomial, polynomial and hybrid) derived by using the present generalized formulation are compared with 3D exact solutions and with other HSDTs. Results show that some of the new HSDTs are more accurate than, for example, the well-known trigonometric HSDT, having the same 6DOF. (c) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.