Deformation of short composite beam using refined theories

High-order flexural theories for short laminated composite beams subjected to mechanical and thermal loading are presented. The formulation allows for warping of the cross-section of the beam and eliminates the need for using arbitrary shear correction coefficients as in other theories. Based on higher-order shear deformation theories, the governing equations are obtained using the principle of virtual work (PVW). The justification for use of higherorder shear deformation theories is established for short and composite beams where cross-sectional warping is predominant