A layerwise theory for Nth-layer functionally graded plates including thickness stretching effects

A layerwise theory for Nth-layer functionally graded plates is presented using Reissner's mixed variational principle. The assumed displacements and stresses for each layer are taken to be continuous across the layer thickness; and satisfy the continuity conditions at the interfaces between the layers. The displacement filed accounts for an in-plane displacements varying linearly through the layer thickness; and the out-of-plane displacement has a parabolic variation through the layer thickness. In the present formulation, the shear deformation and normal strains effects are included. The governing and constitutive equations for Nth-layer functionally graded plates are derived. The accuracy of the present theory in predicting the bending response of single-layer and multilayered FG plates is examined by comparing present numerical results with their counterparts available in the literature obtained due to 3D elasticity solution and advanced theories. The influence of the normal strain effect on the bending response of single-layer and multilayered FG plates is illustrated. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.