Abstract
A novel three variable refined plate theory (TVRPT) is developed in this article for laminated composite plates for the first time. The theory takes into account the nonlinear variation of transverse shear deformations, and satisfies the boundary conditions of zero traction on the plate surfaces without considering the "shear correction factor ". The important characteristic of this new kinematic is that the unknowns numbers is only 3 as is employed in "classical plate theory " (CPT). The numerical results of the current theory are compared with 3D-elasticity solutions and the calculations of "first order theories " and other higher order models found in the literature.