Some considerations on a four-node finite element for composites with the drilling degrees of freedom

A plate-type finite element with six degrees of freedom (DOF) for each of the four nodes is introduced. To obtain this result a Mindlin-type bending-plate element is superimposed on a three DOF per node plane-stress element. Composites are simulated using the YNS theory. A few considerations on some plate-shell elements already tested are reported and the introduction of the drilling DOF is justified. A comparison with the results obtained by using a nine-node reduced-integration isoparametric element is also supplied.