High accuracy post-buckling analysis of moderately thick composite plates using an exact finite strip

A high accuracy finite strip for the buckling and post-buckling analysis of moderately thick symmetric cross-ply composite plates is presented in this paper by using first order shear deformation theory (FSDT). The presented method, which is designated by the name Full-analytical Finite Strip Method (F-a FSM), provides an efficient and extremely accurate buckling solution in which the Von-Karman's equilibrium set of equations is solved exactly, and the out-of-plane mode shapes and critical loads are obtained. In the post-buckling stage, the Von-Karman's compatibility equation is solved exactly with the assumption that the deflected form after buckling is a combination of obtained buckling modes (single or multiple mode shapes). The principle of minimum potential energy is invoked to solve for the unknown coefficients in the assumed out-of-plane deflection and rotations functions.