On Sandwich Beams with Laminate Facings and Honeycomb Cores Subjected to Hygrothermal Loads: Part I—Analysis

Following a macromechanical approach, a sandwich beam with a honey comb core and laminate facings is analyzed under the combined effects of mechanical, thermal, and hygrometric loading. The cores considered are very flexible, and offer negli gible in-plane resistance but are considered relatively stiff in the transverse direction. The general deformation pattern of the beam consists of unequal displacements in the cores and the facings. The governing equations are obtained in terms of the lateral deflection and the mid-plane displacement. The analysis is general and applicable to any construction con sisting of composite construction consisting of laminate faces and cores. The important parameters are defined and their behavior is explained.