Heat conduction in multi-component step-wise FGMs

This paper provides a thorough investigation of a heat conduction problem that pertains to tolerance modelling in layered materials made up of multiple components. These media are functionally graded materials and thus have varying properties that affect their effectiveness. The proposed equations explain the conduction of heat in layered composites. The formulation involves partial differential equations, which utilise smooth and slowly varying functions. Notably, an extension of the unified tolerance modelling procedure is presented generalising existing models for two-component step-wise functionally graded materials (FGMs). This extension allows for the analysis of specific issues related to heat conduction in multi-component stratified composites with a transversal gradation of effective properties. This is the most important novelty achievement of the present paper because it will contribute to advancing knowledge and allows researchers, engineers, and practitioners to use the method in a broader context, addressing a more extensive set of real-world situations not limited to the number of component materials.