The aim of this paper is to analyse the behaviour of various shear-def
ormation laminated-plate theories previously proposed by Reissner, Red
dy and Touratier. The accuracy of these theories is compared for two p
roblems for laminates for which an exact elasticity solution has been
given by Pagano. Retaining the best model among those compared, interl
aminar continuity conditions have been taken into account in this best
response for laminates, and it is shown how important these condition
s are in improving accuracy by comparing them with the elasticity solu
tion. Models which have been introduced are two dimensional and imply
the three standard generalized displacements associated with shear ben
ding. Studies were limited to symmetric and orthotropic plates. Finall
y, an analysis of edge effects was conducted for a square symmetric or
thotropic sandwich plate with two simply supported opposite edges, the
other two opposite ones being hard clamped. Edge effects have been ob
served with refined shear-deformation theories but not with the first-
order shear deformation theory proposed by Reissner. (C) 1997 Elsevier
Science Ltd.