This book shows the advanced methods of numerical simulation of waves and fronts propagation in inhomogeneous solids and introduces related important ideas associated with the application of numerical methods for these problems. Great care has been taken throughout the book to seek a balance between the thermomechanical analysis and numerical techniques. It is suitable for advanced undergraduate and graduate courses in continuum mechanics and engineering. Necessary prerequisites for this text are basic continuum mechanics and thermodynamics. Some elementary knowledge of numerical methods for partial differential equations is also preferable.

Contents: Material Inhomogeneities in Thermomechanics; Local Phase Equilibrium and Jump Relations at Moving Discontinuities; Linear Thermoelasticity; Wave Propagation in Inhomogeneous Solids; Macroscopic Dynamics of Phase Transition Fronts; Two-Dimensional Elastic Waves in Inhomogeneous Media; Two-Dimensional Waves in Functionally Graded Materials; Phase Transitions Fronts in Two Dimensions; Dynamics of a Straight Brittle Crack.