Vibrations of straight and curved composite beams: A review

Laminated composite straight and curved beams are frequently used in various engineering applications. This work attempts to review most of the research done in recent years (1989–2012) on the vibration analysis of composite beams. This review is conducted with emphasis given to the theory being applied (thin, thick, layerwise), methods for solving equations (finite element analysis, differential transform and others) experimental methods, smart beams (piezoelectric or shape memory), complicating effects in both material and structure (viscoelastic, rotating, tip mass and others) and other areas that have been considered in research. A simple classic and shear deformation model would be explained that can be used for beams with any laminate.