Free flexural vibration analysis of symmetric honeycomb panels

The free flexural vibration of symmetric rectangular honeycomb panels having simple support boundary conditions is investigated in this paper using the classical plate theory, Mindlinʹs improved plate theory, and Reddyʹs third-order plate theory. The honeycomb core of hexagonal cells is modeled as a thick layer of orthotropic material whose physical and mechanical properties are determined using the Gibson and Ashby correlations. The comparative studies conducted on aluminum honeycomb panels indicate that both the classical and improved plate theories are inadequate for the flexural vibration of honeycomb panels.