New Higher-Order Models for Sandwich Plates with a Flexible Core and their Accuracy Assessment

Two higher-order analytical models based on a new higher-order theory for sandwich plates with flexible cores are developed considering the effect of the core material density and skin-to-core-stiffness-ratio (SCSR). The main difference between the two models is the role of the flexible core in the dynamic response of sandwich plates with cores of different stiffnesses. Firstly, the governing equations of a simply supported sandwich plate with a flexible core are derived based on the two models, and the analytical solutions are determined by using Navier’s approach. Then, the free vibration, static, dynamic bending and stress field characteristics of the sandwich plates with different SCSRs are investigated. The results obtained by the proposed method are compared with other published results. In particular, an accuracy assessment of the present dynamic models is conducted for different SCSRs. Finally, conclusions on the applicability of the proposed method and other theories on sandwich plates with different SCSRs are drawn.