Continuous contact problem of a functionally graded layer resting on an elastic half-plane

In this study, the continuous contact problem of a functionally graded layer resting on an elastic half-plane and loaded by a rigid rectangular stamp is examined. The problem is solved assuming that the functionally graded (FG) layer is isotropic and the shear modulus and mass density vary exponentially throughout the layer's thickness. However, the body force of the elastic half-plane is neglected. In addition, it is assumed that all surfaces are frictionless and only compressive stress is transferred along the contact surfaces. The mathematical problem is reduced to a singular integral equation in which the contact stress under the rigid stamp is unknown using the Fourier integral transform and boundary conditions related to the problem. This singular integral equation is solved numerically using the Gauss-Chebyshev integration formula. The dimensionless contact stress under the rigid stamp, the initial separation loads and the initial separation distances between the FG layer and the elastic half-plane are obtained for various dimensionless quantities.