Buckling analysis of plates using the two variable refined plate theory

Buckling analysis of isotropic and orthotropic plates using the two variable refined plate theory is presented in this paper. The theory takes account of transverse shear effects and parabolic distribution of the transverse shear strains through the thickness of the plate, hence it is unnecessary to use shear correction factors. Governing equations are derived from the principle of virtual displacements. The closed-form solution of a simply supported rectangular plate subjected to in-plane loading has been obtained by using the Navier method. Numerical results obtained by the present theory are compared with classical plate theory solutions, first-order shear deformable theory solutions, and available exact solutions in the literature. It can be concluded that the present theory, which does not require shear correction factor, is not only simple but also comparable to the first-order shear deformable theory.