Free vibrations of laminated composite plates using a novel four variable refined plate theory

Abstract

In this research, the free vibration response of laminated composite plates is investigated using a novel and simple higher order shear deformation plate theory. The model considers a non-linear distribution of the transverse shear strains, and verifies the zero traction boundary conditions on the surfaces of the plate without introducing shear correction coefficient. The developed kinematic uses undetermined integral terms with only four unknowns. Equations of motion are obtained from the Hamilton's principle and the Navier method is used to determine the closed-form solutions of antisymmetric cross-ply and angle-ply laminates. Numerical examples studied using the present formulation is compared with three-dimensional elasticity solutions and those calculated using the first-order and the other higher-order theories. It can be concluded that the present model is not only accurate but also efficient and simple in studying the free vibration response of laminated composite plates.