Theoretical modeling and analysis of thermal fracture of semi-infinite functionally graded materials with edge cracks

The present investigation is devoted to a problem of the interaction of two edge cracks inclined arbitrary to the boundary of a non-homogeneous half-plane, which is a functionally graded layer on a homogeneous substrate. The functionally graded properties vary exponentially in thickness direction. One cycle of cooling from sintering temperature is considered. An approach based on integral equations is used and a solution is obtained, then the stress intensity factors are calculated and direction of the initial crack propagation is evaluated by using the maximum circumferential stress criterion. Influence of geometrical and material (inhomogeneity) parameters on the fracture characteristics is investigated. This study can serve as a part of the modeling of the fracture process in FGM coatings under cyclic heating–cooling thermal loading.