Discontinuous wave fronts propagation in anisotropic layered media

The problem of dynamic interaction of wave phase fronts with anisotropic elastic media interfaces is considered. A technique based on joint use of the ray theory. locally plane approach and theory of stereomechanical impact is elaborated. It is employed for the investigation of discontinuous waves propagation in anisotropic tectonic structures. The cases of interaction of quasi-longitudinal and quasi-shear discontinuous waves with the interfaces separating different anisotropic elastic media are treated. The issues are considered which are associated with the wave front surfaces bifurcations, generation of their singularities and caustics, as well as with stress concentration and formation of zones where the stresses tend to infinity. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.