The paper presents a locking-free four-node element for laminated composite and sandwich plates based on Refined Zigzag Theory (RZT). Initially, two RZT-based plate elements are derived using eight-node configurations, achieved by way of standard C0 isoparametric shape functions. In addition, with view improving the modelling extremely thin plates, an anisoparametric is developed in which trans...

We introduce a three-dimensional, computationally feasible, mesoscopic model for snow-crystal growth, based on diffusion of vapor, anisotropic attachment, and a boundary layer. Several case studies are presented that faithfully replicate most observed snow-crystal morphology, an unusual achievement for a mathematical model. In particular, many of the most striking physical specimens feature bot...

The utilization of a slug calorimeter to evaluate the thermal performance of fire resistive materials (FRMs) is presented. The basic specimen configuration consists of a ‘sandwich’, with a square central stainless-steel plate (slug) surrounded on two sides by the FRM. This sandwich configuration provides an adiabatic boundary condition at the central axis of the slug plate that greatly simplifi...

The method for calculating the deflection of a web-core sandwich panel in its weak direction is based on complex shell and plate theory. A simple method was presented by assuming inflection points are located at the mid-span of the facing plate segment between two adjacent web cores. It also assumes that an inflection point also exists at the midheight of the web core. Based on these assumption...

Abstract Sandwich panels have been of great interest in recent years due to the tendency engineers replace heavy and rigid structures with light that allow good energy absorption deformation values. One areas needs these is cabin design used on construction equipment. These cabins are environments where there a danger various objects may hit structure their roof, thus endangering health or life...