ABSTRACT
A buckling optimization method is described for simply supported symmetric laminates. The method considers the effect of adding a ply to either side of an existing laminate in order to increase the critical buckling load. Simple constraints are applied to keep the optimum ply angle within predetermined values. The result is an equation based on plate aspect ratio and material properties that will help the designer maximize the buckling load. Design guidelines are proposed for simply supported symmetric laminated plates under bi-axial loading and includes consideration of the mode shape.
