The solution of elasticity problems for the half-space by the method of Green and Collins

The paper reviews the method of complex potential functions developed by Green and Collins as applied to axisymmetric mixed boundary value problems in elasticity for the half-space. It is shown how the method can be applied to problems in several coupled potential functions such as adhesive and frictional contact problems, to problems involving annular regions and to problems in thermoelasticity. Attention is given to the question of choosing a formulation which leads to a well-behaved numerical solution. Tables are given of the most commonly needed inversion formulae and of expressions for total load and stress intensity factor.