An efficient and simple refined theory for nonlinear bending analysis of functionally graded sandwich plates

In this paper, an efficient and simple refined theory is presented for nonlinear bending analysis of functionally graded sandwich plates. The theory presented is variationally consistent, does not require the shear correction factor, and gives rise to transverse shear stress variations such that the transverse shear stresses vary parabolically across the plate thickness, satisfying shear-stress-free surface conditions. The energy concept along with the present theory and the first- and third-order shear deformation theories is used to predict the large deflection and the stress distribution across the thickness of functionally graded sandwich plates.