Time-domain BEM for three-dimensional fracture mechanics

The present paper deals with time-domain analysis of three-dimensional transient dynamic crack problems. The time-domain formulation of the boundary element method for 3-D elastodynamic problems is used. Quarter-point and singular quarter-point elements represent displacements and tractions, respectively, near the crack front. Special attention is paid to integration and algorithms to preserve stability. Cracks in finite and unbounded regions under single and mixed mode dynamic loading conditions are studied. To the authors’ knowledge, no previous BE approach for 3-D elastodynamic crack problems based on the time-domain displacement representation exists.