Buckling of composite plates

The buckling of composite plates is a very complicated subject about which at least 200 references are already available. The present paper examines the characteristics and parameters which may need to be considered, both from mathematical and physical points of view, and provides perspective and organization to the subject. The first part deals with classical bifurcation buckling analysis, discusses the relevant plate equations and their solutions, and considers shapes, edge conditions and loadings which may arise. The second part treats classical complicating effects (those still yielding linear eigenvalue problems with bifurcation) including: elastic foundation, variable thickness, shear deformation, hygrothermal effects and inplane heterogeneity. The third part takes up non-classical considerations—postbuckling, geometric imperfections, parametric excitation, follower forces and inelastic material.