A linear two-dimensional mathematical model for thin two-layer plates with partial shear interaction, with a view towards application to laminated glass

This work presents a consistent derivation, from three-dimensional linear elasticity, of a two-dimensional mathematical model describing the bending and in-plane stretching behaviours, under a general system of quasi-static distributed loads and prescribed support displacements, of thin two-layer plates with partial shear interaction. This layerwise model is specifically tailored for the requirements posed by the analysis of laminated glass plates commonly used in building structures (consisting of two thin glass layers bonded together by an adhesive interlayer). Our approach, based on Podio-Guidugli's method of internal constraints, avoids mutually contradictory assumptions (not uncommon in the literature on structural mechanics) and yields a complete two-dimensional characterisation of displacement, strain and stress fields that exactly satisfy the field equations of three-dimensional linear elasticity and the boundary conditions at the end faces. The choice of generalised variables is designed to bring to light the following fundamental conclusion and physical insight: the resulting two-dimensional boundary value problem is a combination of the equations of Kirchhoff and Mindlin plates (with specified rigidities).Two examples illustrate the application of the proposed model: (i) the cylindrical bending of plate strips and (ii) a family of problems with Navier-type analytical solution. The solutions exhibit continuity across the whole range of zero, partial and full interaction between the layers. Moreover, the Navier-type solutions are consistently in close agreement with the results of three-dimensional finite element analyses. On the contrary, analogous results previously reported in the literature exhibit considerable deviations. An explanation for these discrepancies is discussed in detail.