Backward transfer-matrix method for elastic analysis of layered solids with imperfect bonding

This paper presents a backward transfer-matrix method for the elastic analysis of layered solids with an imperfect bonding at the layer interfaces. A literature review reveals that the conventional transfer-matrix method has an intrinsic fault which leads to ill-conditioned matrices for thick layers and accumulative numerical errors for a large number of layers and that there are a few publications available in the relevant literature regarding the analytical analysis of layered solids by taking into account the effects of imperfectly bonded interfaces. The backward transfer-matrix method adopted in this paper completely overcomes the ill-posedness associated with the conventional transfer-matrix method and fully retains the highest efficiency of the classical transfer-matrix concept for the analytical formulation of solutions in layered elastic solids with imperfectly bonded interfaces. Numerical results indicate that there is no problem in the numerical evaluation of the solutions with high accuracy and efficiency, and that the interfacial bonding conditions have a significant effect on the elastic response of layered solids due to external loading.