Boundary integral equations for notch problems in an anisotropic half-space

A crack or a hole embedded in an anisotropic half-plane space subjected to a concentrated force at its surface is analyzed. Based on the Stroh formalism and the fundamental solutions to the half-plane solid due to point dislocations, the problem can be formulated by a system of boundary integral equations for the unknown dislocation densities defined on the crack or hole border. These integral equations are then reduced to algebraic equations by using the properties of the Chebyshev polynomials in conjunction with the appropriate transformations. Numerical results have been carried out for both crack problems and hole problems to elucidate the effect of geometric configurations on the stress intensity factors and the stress concentration.