Non-uniform frictional sliding under cyclic loading with frictional characteristics changing in the process of sliding

Frictional sliding on a crack with non-uniform frictional characteristics is considered. The present work continues the investigation of Gorbatikh et al. [Int. J. Solids Struct., in press] and focuses on the cyclic loading. The evolution of the sliding process in loading-reloading-unloading cycles is analyzed. We also extend the analysis to the important case when the frictional resistance changes in the process of sliding (such changes may model "degradation" of the sliding surface during sliding, as well as other physical factors, not necessarily related to the sliding itself). (C) 2001 Published by Elsevier Science Ltd.