Fully nonlinear singularly perturbed equations and asymptotic free boundaries

In this paper we study one-phase fully nonlinear singularly perturbed elliptic problems with high energy activation potentials, ζε(u) with ζε→δ₀⋅∫ζ. We establish uniform and optimal gradient estimates of solutions and prove that minimal solutions are non-degenerated. For problems governed by concave equations, we establish uniform weak geometric properties of approximating level surfaces. We also provide a thorough analysis of the free boundary problem obtained as a limit as the ε-parameter term goes to zero. We find the precise jumping condition of limiting solutions through the phase transition, which involves a subtle homogenization process of the governing fully nonlinear operator. In particular, for rotational invariant operators, F(D²u), we show the normal derivative of limiting function is constant along the interface. Smoothness properties of the free boundary are also addressed.