Date of Award

3-2005

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics

First Advisor

Anthony N. Palazotto, PhD

Abstract

A Functionally Graded Material (FGM) is a material which has a continuous variation of material properties through-the-thickness. This thesis will explore analysis of FGM flat plates and shell panels, and use FGM's unique characteristics to retrofit a cracked exhaust wash structure. FGMs are first characterized as flat plates under pressure and thermal loading. Next, FGM shell panels are characterized under thermal loading. Conclusions drawn from FGM characterization are used to develop a patch to retrofit a cracked aircraft exhaust wash structure. The exhaust wash structure is first analyzed to provide a baseline and then several FGM patches are evaluated on their ability to reduce stress and deflection. Finally, an exhaust wash panel made of FGM is analyzed.

AFIT Designator

AFIT-GAE-ENY-05-M04

DTIC Accession Number

ADA434403

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