bending analysis of thick isotropic plates by using 5th order shear deformation theory

A 5th order shear deformation theory considering transverse shear deformation effect as well as transverse normal strain deformation effect is presented for static flexure   analysis of simply supported isotropic plate. The assumed displacement field accounts for non-linear variation of in-plane displacements as well as transverse displacement through the plate thickness. The condition of zero transverse shear stresses on the upper and lower surface of plate is satisfied. Hence the present formulation does not require the shear correction factor generally associated with the first order shear deformable theory. Governing equations and boundary conditions of the theory are obtained using the principle of virtual work. Closed-form analytical solutions for simply supported square isotropic thick plates subjected to single sinusoidal distributed loads are obtained. Numerical results for static flexure analysis include the effects of side to thickness ratio and plate aspect ratio for simply supported isotropic plates. Numerical results are obtained using MATLAB programming. The results of present theory are in close agreement with those of higher order shear deformation theories and exact 3D elasticity solutions.