A non-polynomial four variable refined plate theory for free vibration of functionally graded thick rectangular plates on elastic foundation

This paper presents a free vibration analysis of plates made of functionally graded materials and resting on two-layer elastic foundations by proposing a non-polynomial four variable refined plate theory. Undetermined integral terms are introduced in the proposed displacement field and unlike the conventional higher shear deformation theory (HSDT), the present one contains only four unknowns. Equations of motion are derived via the Hamilton's principles and solved using Navier's procedure. Accuracy of the present theory is demonstrated by comparing the results of numerical examples with the ones available in literature.