An efficient semi-analytical model for composite and sandwich plates subjected to thermal load

Abstract

A simple, semi-analytical model with mixed (stresses and displacements) fundamental variables starting from the exact three dimensional (3D) governing partial differential equations (PDEs) of laminated composite and sandwich plates for thermo-mechanical stress analysis has been presented in this paper. The plate is assumed simply supported on all four edges. Two different temperature variations through the thickness of plates are considered for numerical investigation. The accuracy and the effectiveness of the proposed model are assessed by comparing numerical results from the present investigation with the available elasticity solutions. Some new results for sandwich laminates are also presented for future reference.