Flexural analysis of symmetric laminated composite beams using C-1 finite element

A two-noded C-1 finite element of 8 d.o.f. per node, based on a higher-orde r shear deformation theory, has been developed for flexural analysis of sym metric laminated composite beams in this note. The element assumes a parabo lic variation of shear stress across the thickness of beams to avoid layer- dependent shear correction factors. Numerical results are given for simply supported, symmetric laminated composite beams, loaded equally at the top a nd bottom surfaces of the beams and are compared with the exact elasticity solution of Pagano. The special feature of the element is that transverse n ormal stress across the thickness of the beams, which is playing a crucial role irt delamination, is reasonably accurately calculated using constituti ve law even though unrealistic discontinuities at the interfaces of laminat es are shown by the element. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights rese rved.