Crack problem for a functionally graded layer on an elastic foundation

In this paper internal and edge crack problems for an FGM layer attached to an elastic foundation are considered. This model can be used to simulate circumferential crack problem for a thin walled cylinder. It is assumed that the mechanical properties of the layer are varying in thickness direction. Crack is assumed to be perpendicular to the surfaces. For this geometry stress intensity factors are calculated for a number of different crack surface tractions. By using the calculated stress intensity factors and the principle of superposition it is possible to obtain solutions for physically meaningful cases such as fixed grip constant strain loading, membrane loading and bending.