On the finite integral transform approach for analytic thermal buckling solutions of orthotropic plates

For the first time, the finite integral transform (FIT) approach is extended to predict thermal buckling behaviors of orthotropic thin plates with various edge restraints. A rational strategy of accurate solution procedure is proposed to tackle plate problems, and no assumption of trial function is imposed, which is different from traditional semi-inverse solution framework. Performing the transformation introduced on the plate thermal buckling equation to produce systems of linear algebraic equations easily solved, which can provide useful benchmark results for the critical temperature and the associated thermal buckling mode shape of orthotropic plates. Good agreement between the present result with data offered by finite element method (FEM) is found, which validates the accuracy of the approach employed. Thermal buckling behaviors of plates are also investigated parametrically, with the parameters involved being the aspect ratio and edge restraint. All the present numerical and graphical results are expected to give better design for orthotropic plate structures subjected to uniform thermal load. Furthermore, in view of the generality of the present method, it is hopeful to be extended for more complex plate and shell problems.