Higher order zig-zag plate theory under thermo-electric-mechanical loads combined

Abstract

A higher order zig-zag plate theory is developed to refine the predictions of the mechanical, thermal, and electric behaviors partially coupled. The in-plane displacement fields are constructed by superimposing linear zig-zag field to the smooth globally cubic varying field through the thickness. Smooth parabolic distribution through the thickness is assumed in the out-of-plane displacement in order to consider transverse normal deformation and stress. The layer-dependent degrees of freedom of displacement fields are expressed in terms of reference primary degrees of freedom by applying interface continuity conditions as well as bounding surface conditions of transverse shear stresses. Artificial shear correction factors are not needed in the present formulation. Thus the proposed theory has only seven primary unknowns and they do not depend upon the number of layers. Through the numerical examples of partially coupled analysis, the accuracy and efficiency of the present theory are demonstrated. The present theory is suitable in the predictions of deformation and stresses of thick smart composite plate under mechanical, thermal, and electric loads combined.