Frictionless discontinuous contact problem of the thermoelectric layer resting on a rigid base

Abstract

Neglecting the friction between the indenter and the thermoelectric layer (TEL), the discontinuous contact problem between the TEL and the rigid base is studied by using elastic theory and integral transformation technology. The external load is applied to the TEL through the rigid base. When the value of the external load exceeds the critical load (CL) separation occurs along the interface between the TEL and the rigid base. The discontinuous contact problem is transformed into a system of singular integral equations (SIES) by boundary conditions. Numerical results of the contact stress and the separation distance between the TEL and the rigid base are considered by the external load, the specific weight of the TEL and the width of the indenter. The results show that the larger external load and the specific weight of the TEL will cause the separation distance between the TEL and the rigid base to increase. However, the increase in the width of the rigid indenter has the opposite effect on the contact stress between the TEL and the rigid base. The model developed in this article provides guidance for the design and safety and reliability judgment of thermoelectric components in practical applications.