Analysis of imperfect composites and sandwich laminates subjected to in-plane partial edge loading

Abstract

<jats:p>The static response of imperfect composites and sandwich laminates subjected to in-plane partial edge loading is studied. An efficient finite element model based on a refined plate theory is developed for the present purpose. In this theory, the transverse shear stresses are continuous at the layer interfaces along with stress free conditions at the top and bottom surfaces of the plate. The imperfection is considered in the form of in-plane displacement jumps at the layer interfaces, which is characterized by a linear spring-layer model. It is quite encouraging to note that the plate model having all these refined features requires unknowns only at the reference plane. However, this theory demands C<jats:sup>1</jats:sup>continuity of transverse displacement at the element edges, which is difficult to accommodate arbitrarily in any existing finite element. To deal with this problem a new triangular element developed by the authors is used in the present study.</jats:p>