Abstract
The experimental efforts towards understanding the fracture behavior of continuously graded Functionally Graded Materials (FGMs) using full-field optical methods are reviewed. Both quasi-static and dynamic fracture investigations involving mode-I and -II conditions are presented. FGM configurations with crack planes perpendicular to, parallel to, and inclined to the direction of compositional gradation are discussed. Different strategies adopted by various investigators to develop polymer-based FGM systems for experimental mechanics studies are also described in this overview. Major theoretical developments that have predated and paralleled the experimental studies have been presented as well. Finally, the paper notes a few potential new directions where further contributions are possible.