Influence of Crack Depth on Stress Distribution in a Semi-Infinite Elastic Medium Under a Moving Load

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of crack depth on stress distribution in a semi-infinite elastic medium under a moving load. A buried Mode-III crack is considered at varying depths (0.1~m to 3.0~m), and the load moves with constant velocity ranging from 10~m/s to 50~m/s. Using Fourier transform techniques, the displacement and stress fields are derived. The results show that increasing crack depth significantly reduces surface stress and alters the stress distribution pattern. Validation with existing literature confirms model accuracy. This model is applicable to fault-line analysis and underground rail/road evaluations. A time-dependent stress analysis is also performed to highlight the dynamic interaction between moving loads and buried cracks, offering practical insights for subsurface infrastructure monitoring and failure prediction.