Fracture analysis of a weak-discontinuous interface in a symmetrical functionally gradient composite strip loaded by anti-plane impact

The anti-plane impact fracture analysis was performed for a weak-discontinuous interface in a symmetrical functionally gradient composite strip. A new bi-parameter exponential function was introduced to simulate the continuous variation of material properties. Using Laplace and Fourier integral transforms, we reduced the problem to a dual integral equation and obtained asymptotic analytical solution of crack-tip stress field. Based on the numerical solution of the second kind of Fredholm integral equation transformed from the dual integral equation, the effects of the two non-homogeneity parameters on DSIF were discussed. It was indicated that the relative stiffness of the interface and the general stiffness of the whole structure are two important factors affecting the impact fracture behavior of the weak-discontinuous interface. The greater the relative stiffness of the interface is, the higher the value of the dynamic stress intensity factor will be. The greater the general stiffness of the whole structure is, the shorter the time for DSIF to arrive at the peak value and then to stabilize to the steady one. If the general stiffness of the whole structure is great enough, there will be an oscillation between the peak and steady values of DSIF.