A robust and consistent first-order zigzag theory for multilayered beams

In this paper a recently developed refined first-order zigzag theory for multilayered beams is reviewed from a fresh theoretical perspective. The theory includes the kinematics of Timoshenko beam theory as its baseline. The use of a novel piecewise-linear zigzag function provides a more realistic representation of the deformation states of transverse-shear-flexible multilayered beams. Though the formulation does not enforce full continuity of the transverse-shear stresses across the beam’s depth, yet it is robust in the sense that transverse-shear correction factors are not required to yield accurate results. The new theory is variationally consistent, requires only C0-continuity for kinematic approximations, and is thus perfectly suited for developing computationally efficient finite elements.