AN ASSESSMENT OF 4-NODED PLATE FINITE-ELEMENTS BASED ON A GENERALIZED 3RD-ORDER THEORY

Plate finite elements based on the generalized third-order theory of Reddy and the first-order shear deformation theory are analysed and compared on the basis of thick and thin plate modelling behaviour, distortion sensitivity, overall accuracy, reliability and efficiency. In particular, several four-noded Reddy-type elements and the nine-noded Lagrangian and heterosis (Mindlin-type) plate elements are analysed to assess their behaviour in bending, vibration and stability of isotropic and laminated composite plates. A four-noded Reddy-type element is identified which is free of all spurious stiffness and zero energy modes, computationally efficient, and suitable for use in any general-purpose finite element program.