Development of Strong Surfaces Using Functionally Graded Composites Inspired by Natural Teeth—Finite Element and Experimental Verification

Abstract

Functionally graded materials (FGMs) are composite materials that exhibit a microstructure that varies locally in order to achieve a specific type of local material properties distribution. In recent years, FGMs appear to be more interesting in engineering application since they present an enhanced performance against deformation, fracture, and fatigue. The purpose of the present work is to present evidence of the excellent strength properties of a new graded composite that is inspired by the human teeth. The outer surface of the teeth exhibits high surface strength while it is brittle and wear resistant, whereas the inner part is softer and flexible. The specific variation in Young’s modulus along the thickness of the presented composite is of particular interest in our case. The present work presents a finite element analysis and an experimental verification of an actual composite with elastic modulus that follows approximately the theoretical distribution observed in the teeth.