Strength of a Conducting Nonferromagnetic Layer. Size Effect

We present the results of investigations of the steady state of a conducting nonferromagnetic layer performed with the use of the local gradient approach in thermomechanics with regard for the geometric inhomogeneity of its surface. It is shown that the surface stresses and strength are characterized by the multiscale size effect and that the characteristic sizes of the subsurface inhomogeneity are connected with the structural heterogeneity of the material, geometric inhomogeneity of the actual surface of the body, and the forces of Coulomb interaction. The values of the thermodynamic electric potential and charge set on the surface are uniquely determined by the physical and geometric characteristics of the body. The influence of the parameters of geometric inhomogeneity of the actual surface of the body on the size effects of the surface stresses and strength are analyzed.