On the modelling and optimization of functionally graded laminates

The object of investigations are Functionally Graded Materials (FGM) which on the microstructural level are made of two kinds of very thin laminae. These FGM will be referred to as the Functionally Graded Laminates (FGL). The aim of this contribution is to formulate discrete-continuum and continuum 3D-models of elastodynamics of FGL. The proposed modelling procedure constitutes a certain generalization of the approach to the modelling of periodic structures leading to a system of finite difference equations and then to their continuum approximation, Rychlewska and Woźniak (2003). The obtained results are applied to the analysis of a certain layered structure with a FGL transition zone. The optimization problem related to the position of the transition zone is discussed.