To model composite laminate in the context of mechanics, there exist a few models :
## Equivalent single layer (ESL)
Those theories works by computing the homogenized material properties, and solving only at the mid plane. They are useful for global response for thin laminates and are computationnally inexpensive.
(see [[Equivalent Single Layer Theories]])
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## Layerwise (LW)
Those theories describe kinetically each layer. They can be used for very thick laminate, and useful to compute delamination. They predicts correct inter-laminar stresses and there is no need of shear correction factor.
[[Layerwise Theories]] with shear continuities between layers to keep the same number of degrees of freedom as the number of layers is increased. (so less computationally expensive)
It captures the "zig-zag" pattern of displacements through the thickness that occurs due to different layer stiffness.
