Laminated Shell Theories
The analysis of laminated composite shells is commonly based on one of three different theories:
1
Equivalent single layer (ESL) theory
a
Classical laminated plate theory (CLPT)
b
First order shear deformation laminated plate theory (FSDT)
c
Higher order shear deformation laminated plate theory
2
Three dimensional elasticity theory
a
Traditional 3D elasticity theory
b
Layerwise 3D elasticity theory
3
Multiple model methods
In COMSOL Multiphysics, composite laminates are analyzed either using layerwise 3D elasticity theory through the Layered Shell interface or using first order shear deformation theory (ESL-FSDT) theory through the
Linear Elastic Material, Layered
,
Hyperelastic Material, Layered
, or
Piezoelectric Material, Layered
material models in the Shell interface.
This section includes:
•
Equivalent Single Layer (ESL) Theory
•
Layerwise (LW) Theory
•
Selection of an Appropriate Laminate Theory