Development of the C0-Continuous Finite Element Models for Sandwich Beams Based on Higher-Order Refined Zigzag Theory

Based on higher-order refined zigzag theory (HRZT), a C0-continuous finite element model of the sandwich beam was developed to analyze the beam bending problem under static load. The five independent variables are interpolated by using anisoparametric elements to avoid the shear locking effects. In order to verify the formulations, the sandwich beams are also investigated by 2-D solutions from analytical method or ANSYS. The numerical results show that the present finite element formulations can predict the zigzag displacements and deflections at high accuracy.