Three Dimensional Modeling of the Dc Potential Drop Method Using Finite Element Andboundaryelement Analysis Introduction

The finite element method (FEM) is a domain technique of solving the underlying governing equation in the region. The solution obtained in the total region is ideal to study energy/defect interactions, but the extensive discretization demands vast computer resources. On the other hand, the potential savings in computation resources, due to a limited surface or boundary discretization, is the primary motivation in using the boundary element method (BEM). The numerical solution of the boundary integral representation of the governing equation is the BEM. This is based on the two point kernel function (or fundamental solution) which is a distinctive feature ofthe BEM. The kernel exists only for linear operators, which poses a limitation.