Vibration Analysis of Laminated Composite Plates
Summary
Laminated composite plates, comprising bonded layers of orthotropic fibre-reinforced polymers with varying orientation, have become indispensable in sectors demanding high strength-to-weight ratios. Their anisotropic nature and transverse shear effects give rise to complex dynamic responses under free and forced vibration. Classical plate theory may underestimate shear deformation in moderately thick laminates, prompting widespread adoption of higher-order shear deformation theories and three-dimensional elasticity formulations. Central research aims include accurate prediction of natural frequencies, mode shapes and damping characteristics under diverse boundary conditions and geometric configurations, including cutouts and stiffeners. Analytical approaches such as the Rayleigh–Ritz procedure, finite element modelling and spectral techniques are routinely validated against experimental modal analysis to ensure reliability. Practical applications span aerospace panels, wind-turbine blades and marine hulls, where precise vibration control is vital for structural integrity and acoustic performance. Emerging trends focus on functionally graded materials, adaptive and smart laminates and integration of additive manufacturing to tailor dynamic behaviour at the microscale, underscoring the field’s global and interdisciplinary significance.
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Vibration Analysis of Laminated Composite Plates publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in vibration analysis of laminated composite plates across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Laminated composite plate: A structural element of stacked fibre-reinforced layers bonded to achieve tailored anisotropic stiffness and strength.
Natural frequency: The inherent frequency at which a system oscillates freely when disturbed from equilibrium without external forcing.
Mode shape: The deformation pattern adopted by a vibrating structure at a specific natural frequency.
First-order shear deformation theory (FSDT): A plate theory that incorporates transverse shear strains to improve accuracy for moderately thick laminates.
Cutout: An opening introduced into a plate to satisfy structural or functional requirements, significantly affecting its vibration characteristics.
References
- Three-Dimensional Vibration Analysis of Laminated Composite Rectangular Plate with Cutouts. Materials (2020).
- Effects of Elliptical Hole on the Correlation of Natural Frequency with Buckling Load of Basalt Laminates Composite Plates. Science and Engineering of Composite Materials (2020).
- Analysis of Vibration Characteristics for Rotating Braided Fiber-Reinforced Composite Annular Plates with Perforations. Materials (2024).
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