A higher-order plate theory for the analysis of vibrations of thick orthotropic laminates (Q2083820)

In this paper, an equivalent single-layer plate theory for thick laminated plates has been presented whose bending deformation is dominated by a zig-zag shape across the thickness, as is the case, for instance, of cross-laminated timber. The plate theory is formulated for arbitrary cross sections (i.e., symmetric and asymmetric), considering orthotropic material behavior for the individual layers stacked at general angle \(\alpha\). The deformation is governed by eight kinematic degrees of freedom, two in-plane displacements, two out-of-plane displacements, and four rotations. Equations of motion are derived, from which the dispersion relation governing the propagation of bending waves in unbounded plates was obtained. The validity of the plate theory is demonstrated by comparing natural frequencies of a simply supported plate over a wide frequency range for which an analytical solution is available. Furthermore, the influence of individual material properties on the accuracy of the plate theory is investigated, demonstrating its broad applicability. The influence of material orientation on the accuracy of the plate theory is examined by comparative finite element simulations. It is shown that, for cross-ply laminates, the plate theory is valid for elements oriented at any angle to the material principal axes.