Asymptotically accurate and locking-free finite element implementation of first order shear deformation theory for plates

A formulation of the asymptotically exact first-order shear deformation theory for linear-elastic homogeneous plates in the rescaled coordinates and rotation angles is considered. This allows the development of its asymptotically accurate and shear-locking-free finite element implementation. As applications, numerical simulations are performed for circular and rectangular plates, showing complete agreement between the analytical solution and the numerical solutions based on two-dimensional theory and three-dimensional elasticity theory. •A formulation of the asymptotically exact first-order shear deformation theory for plates in the rescaled coordinates and rotation angles is considered.•This rescaled formulation allows the development of the asymptotically accurate and shear-locking-free finite element implementation.•Numerical simulations are performed for circular and rectangular plates, showing complete agreement between the 2-D theory and 3-D elasticity theory.