Hierarchic plate and shell theories with direct evaluation of transverse electric displacement

A mixed variational statement for the analysis of layered structures under the effect of mechanical and electrical fields is proposed in this paper to develop finite plate elements what permits direct evaluation (that is "a priori") of transverse electrical displacement Dz. The original Reissner Mixed Variational Theorem RMVT is modified to account "only" for interlaminar continuous Dz. Continuity of mechanical variables, such as transverse shear and normal stress components, is discarded to provide a simple "Electrical" modified RMVT, here denoted RMVT-Dz. Implementation are made via Carrera Unified Formulation. The applications of the proposed approach is demonstrated by comparison with classical formulations based on the Principle of Virtual Displacements as well as to available 3D and analytical solutions. © 2009 by the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Inc.