Three-dimensional Green's functions in an anisotropic half-space with general boundary conditions

This paper derives, for the first time, the complete set of three-dimensional Green functions (displacements, stresses, and derivatives of displacements and stresses with respect to the source point), or the generalized Mindlin solutions, in an anisotropic half-space (z > 0) with general boundary conditions on the flat surface z = 0. Applying the Mindlins superposition method, the half-space Green's function is obtained as a sum of the generalized Kelvin solution (Green's function in an anisotropic infinite space) and a Mindlin's complementary solution. While the generalized Kelvin solution is in an explicit form, the Mindlins complementary part is expressed in terms of a simple line-integral over [0, IT]. By introducing a new matrix K, which is a suitable combination of the eigenmatrices A and B, Green's functions corresponding to different boundary conditions are concisely expressed in a unified form, including the existing traction-free and rigid boundaries as special cases. The corresponding generalized Boussinesq solutions are investigated in details. In particular it is proved that under the general boundary conditions studied in this paper the generalized Boussinesq solution is still well-defined. A physical explanation for this solution is also offered in terms of the equivalent concept of the Green's functions due to a point force and an infinitesimal dislocation loop. Finally, a new numerical example for the Green's functions in an orthotropic half-space with different boundary conditions is presented to illustrate the effect of different boundary conditions, as well as material anisotropy, on the half-space Green functions.