In this paper, a finite element analysis of laminated composite plates with piezoelectric laminae is developed. This formulation is based on the first-order shear deformation theory. This theory is extended to include the piezothermoelastic response of composite plate structures. The element employed is a triangle with 18 degree-of-freedom which include extension, bending and transverse shear deformation states. Numerical results show that moderately thick piezothermoelastic composites are sensitive to shear deformation.
