An assessment of four-noded plate finite elements based on a generalized third-order theory

Plate finite elements based on the generalized third-order theory of Reddy and the first-order shear deformation theory are analyzed and compared on the basis of thick and thin plate modeling behavior, distortion sensitivity, overall accuracy, reliability, and efficiency. In particular, several four-noded Reddy-type elements and the nine-noded Lagrangian and heterosis (Mindlin-type) plate elements are analyzed to assess their behavior in bending, vibration, and stability of isotropic and laminated composite plates. A four-noded Reddy-type element is identified which is free of all spurious stiffness and zero energy modes, computationally efficient, and suitable for use in any general-purpose finite element program.