In this work, a finite-element model is presented for geometric non-linear
analysis of composite shell structures. It adopts a layered formulation of
the Marguerre shell element. The material is assumed to have an orthotropic
behaviour. The non-linear incremental equilibrium equations are set using
a total Lagrangian displacement formulation of the finite-element method an
d the solution is accomplished using the incremental/literative Newton-Raph
son method as well as a spherical formulation of the arc-length methods. Th
e buckling behaviour of composite shells is analysed as a function of the m
aterial orientation and laminate stacking. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. A
ll rights reserved.