A new inverse hyperbolic zigzag theory for the static analysis of laminated composite and sandwich plates

In the present work, a new Inverse Hyperbolic Zigzag Theory (IHZZT) is proposed for the analysis of laminated and sandwich plates. This theory considers an inverse hyperbolic function as shear strain shape function, which represents the non-linear distribution of in-plane displacement across the thickness as compared to a third order polynomial term in conventional theories. This model not only satisfies transverse shear stress traction free boundary conditions on the top and bottom surfaces of the plate, but also satisfies transverse shear stress continuity at the interface. The model is implemented with a computationally efficient C finite element and applied to solve a number of sandwich plate static problems. Results are evaluated for the static analysis of laminated composite and sandwich plates. The results indicate that the present theory anticipates exemplary results for laminated and sandwich plates as compared to the existing theories. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.