Fracture analysis of functionally graded beams with considering material non-linearity

The present paper deals with a theoretical study of delamination fracture in the Crack Lap Shear (CLS) functionally graded beam configuration. The basic purpose is to analyze the fracture with taking into account the material non-linearity. The mechanical behavior of CLS was described by using a non-linear stress-strain relation. It was assumed that the material is functionally graded along the beam height. The fracture was analyzed by applying the J-integral approach. The curvature and neutral axis coordinate of CLS beam were derived in order to solve analytically the J-integral. The non-linear solution of Jintegral obtained was verified by analyzing the strain energy release rate with considering material non-linearity. The effects of material gradient, crack location along the beam height and material non-linearity on fracture behavior were evaluated. The Jintegral non-linear solution derived is very suitable for parametric studies of longitudinal fracture in the CLS beam. The results obtained can be used to optimize the functionally graded beam structure with respect to the fracture performance. The analytical approach developed in the present paper contributes for the understanding of delamination fracture in functionally graded beams exhibiting material non-linearity.