Optimal \(\mathcal{L}^2\) error bounds for MITC3 type element (Q1597706)

The authors derive \(L^2\) error bounds for the three most popular triangular linear elements i.e. the stabilized MITC3 element, the original MIN3 element and the T3BL element used in the study of problem of bending of plates based on the Reissner-Mindlin model. Recently \textit{M. Lyly} [Numer. Math. 85, No. 1, 77-107 (2000; Zbl 0956.74061)] indicated that all these three elements are almost the same, and gave a unifying approach to derive optimal error bounds with respect to the energy norm. He also mentioned that optimal \(L^2\) error bounds are not available because the consistency error is merely of order \(O(h)\). The authors, however, believe that it is just due to the technique Lyly employed that optimal \(L^2\) error bounds could be obtained. The main purpose of this paper is to obtain optimal \(L^2\) error obunds for all the three elements named above. The difference between stabilized MITC3 and MIN3 is estimated and shown to be of the order \(O(h^2)\) uniform in plate thickness.