On the homogenization of a Signorini-type problem in a domain with inclusions

Abstract

In this paper we investigate the effect of a Signorini-type interface condition on the asymptotic behaviour, as $\epsilon$ tends to zero, of problems posed in $\epsilon$-periodic domains with inclusions. The Signorini-type condition is expressed in terms of two complementary equalities involving the jump of the solution on the interface and its conormal derivative via a parameter $\gamma$. Our problem models the heat exchange in a medium hosting an $\epsilon$-periodic array of thermal conductors in presence of impurities distributed on some regions of the interface. Different limit problems are obtained according to different values of $\gamma$.