A model for elastic half space under a visco-elastic layer in generalized thermoelasticity

Abstract We consider a model of two layers for two cases. In the first case, a viscoelastic upper layer over an elastic half-space. In the second case, an elastic upper layer over a viscoelastic half-space. The upper layer’s surface is taken to be traction-free and is subjected to a constant thermal shock. This model is solved in the context of the generalized thermoelasticity theory with one relaxation time. Laplace transform techniques are used. The inverse Laplace transforms are obtained using a numerical method based on the Fourier expansion technique. Numerical results are computed and represented graphically for the temperature, displacement, and stress distributions. This work may be useful in the design of materials used in thermal insulation, vibration reduction, and applications in microelectronics.