Bending and buckling analysis of antisymmetric laminated composite plates using a refined exponential shear deformation theory
Abstract
Introduction/Purpose: This study analyzes the bending response and buckling behavior of antisymmetric laminated composite plates using a refined exponential shear deformation theory (RESDT). The research aims to evaluate dimensionless deflections under transverse loading and critical buckling loads under uniaxial compression while investigating the influence of orthotropic ratio (E₁/E₂), length-to-thickness ratio (a/h), aspect ratio (a/b), and stacking sequence of the laminate plies. Methods: The RESDT formulation employs four independent variables to model transverse shear deformation through an exponential function that inherently satisfies zero shear stress conditions at the plate surfaces, eliminating empirical shear correction factors. Simply supported square and rectangular plates with cross-ply (0/90) and angle-ply (±45°) configurations were analyzed. Results were validated against classical plate theory (CLPT), first-order shear deformation theory (FSDT), higher-order shear deformation theory (HSDT), and exact three-dimensional elasticity solutions. Results: Numerical results demonstrate excellent agreement between RESDT predictions and reference solutions across varying thicknesses and orthotropy levels. For thick plates (a/h = 2-10), transverse shear effects significantly increase dimensionless deflections by up to 15% compared to thin-plate theories. Buckling loads rise with increasing orthotropy degree and a/h ratio, with RESDT matching exact solutions within 1% error for highly orthotropic laminates (E₁ = 40E₂). Conclusion: The four-variable RESDT provides an accurate, computationally efficient framework for predicting mechanical responses of antisymmetric laminates without shear correction factors. Transverse shear deformation critically influences thick-plate behavior, while laminate stiffness improves with higher orthotropy ratios and balanced angle-ply configurations, offering valuable insights for composite structural design optimization.