Abstract
The random response of an antisymmetric angle-ply composite plate subjected to random lateral load on its surface is obtained. The first-order transverse shear deformation theory, involving five coupling partial differential equations, is used. To evaluate the effect of shear deformation, anisotropy and other problem parameters on the response, the numerical results obtained with this theory are compared with the results obtained by the classical plate theory. Significant differences are observed in the two sets of results obtained by the two theories especially for thick plates, thus demonstrating the importance of shear deformations and need for utilization of plate theories which properly account for such deformations. Graphs. 16 ref.--AA