Higher-order theories for symmetric and unsymmetric fiber reinforced composite beams with C finite elements

A simple C⁰ isoparametric finite element formulation based on a set of higher-order displacement models for the analysis of symmetric and asymmetric multilayered composite and sandwich beams subjected to sinusoidal loading is presented. These theories do not require the usual shear correction coefficients which are generally associated with the Timoshenko theory. The four-noded Lagrangian cubic element with kinematic models having four, five and six degrees of freedom per node is used. A computer algorithm is developed which incorporates realistic prediction of transverse interlaminar stresses from equilibrium equations. By comparing the results obtained with the elasticity solution and the CPT (classical laminated plate theory) it is shown that the present higher-order theories give a much better approximation to the behaviour of laminated composite beams, both thick and thin. In addition numerical results for unsymmetric sandwich beams are presented which may serve as benchmark for future investigations.