Quasi-3D flexural analysis of laminated composite plates resting on elastic foundations using higher-order displacement model

Abstract

This work examines the impact of transverse strains on the static, vibration, and buckling analysis of laminated composite plates that are symmetric and anti-symmetric and rest on elastic foundations. This laminated plate theory, which is called a quasi-3D plate theory since it considers the effects of both transverse shear and normal strains, is provided here. The significance of nonclassical influences on plate deformation, such as shear deformation and thickness stretching, is sufficiently highlighted by the current theory. The theory demonstrates realistic transverse shear stress distributions across the laminated plate's thickness and complies with the traction-free boundary conditions at the upper and bottom surfaces of the plate. Hamilton's principle provides the current theory's equations of motion. For simply supported edges, the laminated plates supported by elastic foundations are investigated. For the aim of verification, the numerical results of the displacements, stresses, frequencies, and buckling load derived using the present theory are, if possible, compared with established literature. The current results and those derived from the other hypotheses found in the literature show a good degree of consistency. Additionally, the distributions of the interlaminar stresses in thickness direction of laminated composite plates sitting on elastic foundations are demonstrated.