Inhomogeneous Elastostatics

Abstract

During the last few decades, considerable efforts have been spent on the design, manufacturing and analysis, including failure characterization, of a new class of materials whose properties change continuously in a particular direction (see, e. g., Moore&Samdani, 1993; Erdogan, 1995 and recent conference proceedings, such as Ilschner&Cherradi, 1995). The terms “functionally gradient materials”, or “functionally graded materials” (FGMs) became common usage. A skillful control of the concentration profiles of the constituents of an FGM opens the door for a wide range of possibilities to improve the quality and characteristics of a system. For instance, use of FGMs allows one to solve critical problems of compatibility and adhesion between very dissimilar materials. In like manner, risks originating from thermomechanical stress concentrations at interfaces can be minimized. FGMs are also employed to enhance the material resistance against corrosion and wear, as well as in the design of new types of thermal barriers. It is also contemplated that FGMs can be utilized for electrical insulation in reactor components and to fabricate special coatings which would resist oxidation and other kinds of chemical reaction.