A Volume Integral Equation Technique for Multiple Inclusion and Crack Interaction Problems

Abstract

A volume integral equation method is introduced for the solution of elastostatic problems in heterogeneous solids containing interacting multiple inclusions, voids, and cracks. The method is applied to two-dimensional problems involving long parallel cylindrical inclusions and cracks. The influence of interface layers on the interfacial stress field is investigated. The stress intensity factors for microcracks in the presence of interacting inclusions or voids are also calculated for a variety of model geometries. The accuracy and efficiency of the method are examined through comparison with results obtained from analytical and boundary integral methods.