A novel four variable refined plate theory for laminated composite plates

A novel four variable refined plate theory is proposed in this work for laminated composite plates. The theory considers a parabolic distribution of the transverse shear strains, and respects the zero traction boundary conditions on the surfaces of the plate without employing shear correction coefficient. The displacement field is based on a novel kinematic in which the undetermined integral terms are used, and only four unknowns are involved. The analytical solutions of antisymmetric cross-ply and angle-ply laminates are determined via Navier technique. The obtained results from the present model are compared with three-dimensional elasticity solutions and results of the first-order and the other higher-order theories reported in the literature. It can be concluded that the developed theory is accurate and simple in investigating the bending and buckling responses of laminated composite plates.