A Four-Variable First-Order Shear Deformation Theory Considering the Variation of In-plane Rotation of Functionally Graded Plates

This paper presents a four-variable first-order shear deformation theory considering in-plane rotation of functionally graded plates. In recent studies, a simple first-order shear deformation theory was developed and extended to functionally graded plates. It has only four variables, separating the deflection into bending and shear parts, while the conventional first-order shear deformation theory has five variables. However, this simple first-order shear deformation theory only provides good predictions for simply supported plates since it does not consider in-plane rotation varying through the thickness of the plates. The present theory also has four variables, but considers the variation of in-plane rotation such that it is able to correctly predict the responses of the plates with any boundary conditions. Analytical solutions are obtained for rectangular plates with various boundary conditions. Comparative studies demonstrate the effects of in-plane rotation and the accuracy of the present theory in predicting the responses of functionally graded plates.