Plates are encountered in several forms – starting from the simple uniform, thin, homogeneous metallic structure to more efficient and durable alternatives involving features such as variable-thickness, lamination, sandwich construction, fiber reinforcement, functional gradation, and moderately-thick to very-thick geometry. Correspondingly, several theoretical models are employed for their analysis and design starting from the classical thin plate theory to alternatives obtained by incorporation of appropriate complicating effects or by using fundamentally different assumptions. This book is an attempt to capture the essentials of this development and to present it such that the reader can obtain a quick understanding and overview of the subject area of plate structures. The book is divided into two parts – the first involving an elaborate statement of classical plate theory and its application to typical problems, and the second dealing with complicating effects and appropriate references for further study. Contents Part A: Classical Theory and Straightforward Applications 1 Definition of a Thin Plate 2 Classical Plate Theory 3 A Critical Assessment of Classical Plate Theory 4 Analysis of Rectangular Plates 5 Analysis of Circular Plates 6 Free and Forced Vibrations 7 Effect of In-plane Forces on Static Flexure,Dynamics and Stability 8 Approximate Solutions Appendix – Solutions for Problems Part B: Complicating Effects and Corresponding Theories 9 Anisotropic, Laminated and Functionally-Graded Plates 10 Elasticity Solutions for Plates 11 Shear Deformation Theories 12 Variable Thickness Plates 13 Plate Buckling due to Non-Uniform Compression 14 Nonlinear Flexure and Vibrations 15 Post-Buckling Behaviour Index About the authors Prof. K.Bhaskar has been with Indian Institute of Technology, Madras since 1992. As part of the Department of Aerospace Engineering, he teaches courses related to Solid Mechanics and Elasticity. His research contributions are primarily related to theoretical modeling of thick laminated structures, and have been published in reputed refereed journals. Prof. T.K.Varadan (1938-2023) was with the Department of Aerospace Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Madras for more than thirty-five years. He is fondly remembered by all his students and colleagues for teaching a wide variety of courses related to Structural Mechanics and Aircraft Design, and his significant research contributions in the areas of Nonlinear Vibrations and Composite Structures.