On accurate stress analysis of composite and sandwich narrow beams

Abstract

A simple, semi-analytical methodology defining a two-point boundary value problem (BVP) governed by a set of linear first-order ordinary differential equations (ODEs) with mixed primary variables whose number equals the order of partial differential equations (PDEs) for narrow layered beams is proposed in this paper. These primary quantities consist of displacements (u,w) and the corresponding transverse stresses (τ_xz,σ_z). Continuity of transverse stresses and displacements through the thickness of a laminated beam is enforced naturally in the formulation. The accuracy and the effectiveness of the proposed methodology is addressed by comparing numerical results from the present formulation with available closed-form analytical and finite element (FE) solutions.