Reduction of stress concentration for a rounded rectangular hole by using a functionally graded material layer

This work aims to analyse the stress concentration in an infinite panel having a rounded rectangular hole reinforced with a functionally graded material layer using the extended finite element method. Young's modulus of the functionally graded material layer varies in normal direction to the hole with a power law function. The relation of stress concentration factor with hole parameters, layer thickness, and power law index is presented for uniaxial, biaxial, and shear loads. It is noticed that the reinforcement of the functionally graded material layer around the hole has a significant influence on the stress distribution, and the controlled variation in the material properties of the layer can significantly reduce the stress concentration.