Uniformity of stresses inside a non-elliptical inhomogeneity interacting with a mode III crack

Using conformal mapping techniques and the theory of Cauchy singular integral equations, we prove that it is possible to maintain a uniform internal stress field inside a non-elliptical elastic inhomogeneity embedded in an infinite matrix subjected to uniform remote stress despite the fact that the inhomogeneity interacts with a finite mode III crack. The crack can be modelled either as a Griffith crack or as a Zener–Stroh crack. Our analysis further indicates that the existence of the crack plays a key role in influencing the shape of the corresponding inhomogeneity but not the internal uniform stress field inside the inhomogeneity. Numerical examples are presented to demonstrate the solution.