Higher-Order Moderate Rotation Theories for Elastic Anisotropic Plates

A great deal of interest in the substantiation of refined theories of elastic an-isotropic plates and shells has been manifested in the specialized literature in the last two decades. This interest is largely due to the need for more adequate methods of analysis of structural elements exposed to severe and complex operational conditions in various branches of the advanced technology. In addition, the increased use of new exotic composite materials has provided a new impetus for such refined theories. As it was conclusively shown, the classical methods of analysis based on the Kirchhoff-Love assumptions are inadequate in many important instances. This is especially true whenever the material of the structure exhibits high degrees of anisotropy in its physical and mechanical properties. Such features are typical for the composite and refractory type materials used with increased frequency in the aerospace, naval, nuclear industries, etc. In such cases, refined models allowing a more adequate description of the structural response are needed. They should include transverse shear and transverse normal deformations and should account for the higher-order effects.