A new finite-element procedure for vibration analysis of FGP sandwich plates resting on Kerr foundation

Abstract This article provides a new finite-element procedure based on Reddy’s third-order shear deformation plate theory (TSDT) to establish the motion equation of functionally graded porous (FGP) sandwich plates resting on Kerr foundation (KF). Although Reddy’s TSDT is attractive, it cannot be exploited as expected in finite-element analysis due to the difficulties in satisfying the zero shear stress boundary condition. In this study, the proposed element has four nodes, each with seven degrees of freedom (DOF). The performance of this element is confirmed by conducting various examples, showing its accuracy and range of applications. Then, some studies are performed to present the effects of input parameters on the vibration of FGP sandwich plates resting on KF.