Spectral element model for axially loaded bending–shear–torsion coupled composite Timoshenko beams

The use of frequency-dependent spectral element matrix (or exact dynamic stiffness matrix) in structural dynamics is known to provide extremely accurate solutions, while reducing the total number of degrees-of-freedom to resolve the computational and cost problems. Thus, in this paper, the spectral element model is developed for an axially loaded bending–shear–torsion coupled composite laminated beam which is represented by the Timoshenko beam model based on the first-order shear deformation theory. The high accuracy of the spectral element model is then numerically verified by comparing with exact theoretical solutions or the solutions obtained by conventional finite element method. For the numerical verification, the finite element model is also provided for the composite laminated beam.