Analysis of Functionally Graded Beam

In this paper, static analysis of FGM (functionally graded material) beam is carried out under the framework of Euler–Bernoulli beam theory. Axial stress distribution has been determined for a simply supported FGM beam made of Aluminium and Zirconia. The material properties of FGM are assumed to vary through the thickness, whereas Poisson ratio is held constant. Different material gradation approaches are used to achieve smooth variations of material properties in FGMs. Effect of variation in material properties, on position of neutral axis, is also considered, and stress calculations based on shifted position of neutral axis are performed. Axial stress in bi-material beam made of Aluminium and Zirconia is calculated, and it is found that in the absence of FGM layer, the stress distribution is discontinuous. It is shown that the discontinuity can be removed by introducing a thin FGM layer at the junction of both materials (Aluminium and Zirconia). The results are compared with those available in the literature for the validity of the present methodology.