Periodic crack problem for a functionally graded half-plane an analytic solution

The plane elasticity problem of a functionally graded semi-infinite plane, containing periodic imbedded or edge cracks perpendicular to the free surface is considered. Cracks are subjected to mode one mechanical or thermal loadings, which are represented by crack surface tractions. Young’s modulus, conduction coefficient, coefficient of thermal expansion are taken as exponentially varying functions of the depth coordinate where as Poisson ratio and thermal diffusivity are assumed to be constant. Fourier integrals and Fourier series are used in the formulation which lead to a Cauchy type singular integral equation. The unknown function which is the derivative of crack surface displacement is numerically solved and used in the calculation of stress intensity factors. Limited finite element calculations are done for verification of the results which demonstrate the strong dependence of stress intensity factors on geometric and material parameters.