Bending response of web-core sandwich plates

A theory for the bending response of web-core sandwich plates is presented in this paper. Response is evaluated by transforming an originally discrete core into an equivalent homogenous continuum giving a sandwich plate, which follows, thick-face-plate kinematics. The approach exploits analytical formulations for the determination of the equivalent stiffness properties of the plate. The finite element method is used to determine the internal forces and displacements of the plate for given load and boundary conditions. Thereafter, the periodic structure is reconsidered and the internal forces are used in the stress predictions based on analytical formulations. The validation of the present approach is carried out with 3D FE analyses. The case studies consider various combinations of load and boundary conditions. A good agreement is obtained between the proposed theory and 3D FE analyses.