Generalized finite element formulation for smart multilayered thermal piezoelectric composite plates

Analytical formulations are presented which account for the coupled mechanical, electrical, and thermal response of piezoelectric composite laminates and plate structures. A robust layerwise theory is formulated with the inherent capability to explicitly model the active and sensory response of piezoelectric composite plates having general laminations in thermal environments. Finite element equations are derived and implemented for a bilinear 4-noded plate element. Applications demonstrate the capability to manage thermally induced bending and twisting deformations in symmetric and antisymmetric composite plates with piezoelectric actuators and attain thermal stability. The resultant stresses in the thermal piezoelectric composite laminates are also investigated. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd