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In this paper, we propose a new systematic procedure of estimating elastic properties of composites constituted of two phases, matrix and inclusions. A class of integral equations based on eigenstrain (or eigenstress) with the matrix as reference material is constructed with an explicit form in Fourier space. Each integral equation belonging to this class can yield estimates of the overall elastic tensor via Neumann series expansion. The best estimates and series are selected based on the convergence rate criteria of the series, i.e the spectral radius must be minimized. The optimized series is convergent for any finite contrast between inclusions and matrix. Applying the optimized series and the associated estimates to different microstructures yields very satisfying results when compared with the related full solution. For the case of a random distribution of spherical inclusions, exact relations between the elastic tensor and n th order structure factors are demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, an integral equation approach is adopted to price American-style down-and-out calls. Instead of using the probability theory as used in the literature, we use the continuous Fourier sine transform to solve the partial differential equation system governing the option prices. As a way of validating our approach, we show that the “early exercise premium representation” for American-style down-and-out calls without rebate can be re-derived by using our approach. We then examine the case that time-dependent rebates are included in the contract of American-style down-and-out calls. As a result, a more general integral representation for the price of an American-style down-and-out call, with the presence of an extra term associated with the rebate, is obtained. Our numerical method based on the newly-derived integral representation appears to be efficient in computing the price and the hedging parameters for American-style down-and-out calls with rebates. In addition, significant effects of rebates on the option prices and the optimal exercise boundaries are illustrated through selected numerical results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The crack problem of a magnetoelectroelastic layer bonded to dissimilar half spaces under anti-plane shear and in-plane electric and magnetic loads is considered. Fourier transforms are used to reduce the mixed boundary value problems of the crack, which is assumed to be permeable, to simultaneous dual integral equations, and then expressed in terms of Fredholm integral equations of the second kind. Numerical results show that the stress intensity factors are influenced by the magnetoelectric interactions and the geometry size ratio. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The singular stress, electric fields and magnetic fields in a rectangular magnetoelectroelastic body containing a moving crack under longitudinal shear are obtained. Fourier transforms and Fourier sine series are used to reduce the mixed boundary value problems of the crack, which is assumed to be permeable or impermeable, to dual integral equations, and then expressed in terms of Fredholm integral equations of the second kind. Results show that the stress intensity factors are influenced by the material constants, the geometry size ratio and the velocity of the crack, and the propagation of the crack possibly brings about branching phenomena. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The electroelastic response of a penny-shaped crack in a piezoelectric cylindrical fiber embedded in an elastic matrix is investigated in this study. Fourier and Hankel transforms are used to reduce the problem to the solution of a pair of dual integral equations. They are then reduced to a Fredholm integral equation of the second kind. Numerical values on the stress intensity factor, energy release rate and energy density factor for piezoelectric composites are obtained to show the influence of applied electric fields. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]