FREE-VIBRATION ANALYSIS OF LAMINATED PLATES USING A LAYERWISE THEORY

Reddy's layerwise theory is used to perform free-vibration analysis of laminated plates. This theory is the most current and sophisticated t heory in which full account is given to various three-dimensional effe cts. The results obtained from this theory are compared with those obt ained from a full-fledged three-dimensional elasticity analysis and va rious equivalent single-layer theories that are available. These inclu de the classical laminated plate theory (CLPT), the first-order shear deformation laminated plate theory (FSDPT), and the third-order shear deformation plate theory (THSDPT). The elasticity equations are solved by utilizing the state-space variables and the transfer matrix. A det ailed analysis is carried out, by uncoupling the Navier equations, to study the various mode shapes and natural frequencies of a homogeneous transversely isotropic plate. Results are also obtained for symmetric and antisymmetric cross-ply laminates.