Interlaminar stress analysis of composite shell structures using a geometrically nonlinear layer-wise shell finite element

This work aims to calculate interlaminar stress distribution through the thickness of multilayered composite shell structures by employing a novel nonlinear layer-wise finite element formulation. Adapting Mindlin– Reissner theory in each layer, shear-deformable presents shear distributions increasing number layers. The normal is then determined using difference solution general form equilibrium equation non-orthogonal curvilinear grid along Gaussian points. Two boundary conditions at bottom and top surfaces are satisfied adopting linear Lagrange interpolation function. developed formulation assessed some illustrative problems solved proprietary computer program. results compare very well with those available literature obtained simulations commercial software Ansys.