Finite deformation solution of a dynamic problem of combined compressive and shear loading for an elastic-plastic half-space

A self-similar problem involving combined compressive and shear loading of a non work-hardening elastic-plastic half-space is solved, for large deformations, within the framework proposed earlier by J.R. Willis (1969). The thermodynamic system, which was left open in the general framework, is taken to be that proposed recently by G.W. Swan and C.K. Thornhill (1974). Results are presented for oblique loading of a block of low carbon steel. For an imposed normal velocity of the order of 1,100 m s^?1, a smooth shear wave behind the shock that is formed is possible only for small transverse velocities, perhaps no greater than 14 m s^?1, depending upon the value assumed for the yield stress. Larger transverse velocities would give rise to a thin layer of intense shear near the surface of the block, whose study would require allowance for both work-hardening and temperature-dependent yield stress.