Configurational Forces: Thermomechanics, Physics, Mathematics, and Numerics

Description:

Exploring recent developments in continuum mechanics, this book presents the general framework for configurational forces and covers a range of applications in engineering and condensed matter physics. The author provides examples of standard linear and nonlinear, recoverable, and thermodynamically irreversible behaviors. He also presents applications of shock waves, phase-transition fronts, and metallurgy problems involving a multitude of phases; covers complex cases that frequently occur in contemporary continuum mechanics, such as polar materials, solid-fluid mixtures, and electromagnetic deformable media of different types; and gives a variety of examples based on generalized continuum mechanics.

Review Quotes:

"... an excellent introduction into this wide branch of mechanics, and, at the same time, it provides scientists already involved in the field extended references to specific aspects of Eshelbian mechanics. On an equal level, the thermomechanics, physics, mathematics and numerics of configurational forces are covered. Starting with elastic bodies, the theory is extended step-by-step to complex and generalized continua. Discontinuities of various kinds, fracture, moving interfaces, wave motion, etc., are treated, and elastic, elastoplastic, elastomagnetic and thermoelastic materials are discussed. The huge amount of material is arranged in a clear and rigorous manner. This is a book of a master in his field."
-- Reinhold Kienzler (Bremen), Zentralblatt MATH

The book is indeed written by a true master of his field and is thus great fun to read and to study. It is of interest not only for specialists in configurational forces but for all those who are concerned with the broad field of continuum modeling. It is for example amazing to see how apparently dissimilar fields such as e1ectro-magneto-mechanics and biological growth or nonlinear waves are connected by the underlying and thus unifying concept of configurational forces. The book is extremely rich in detail and depth; at the same time it will be helpful for the beginner and the expert alike. In summary I assess that this is one of the few books that should be on the bookshelf of any researcher in mechanics and/or applied mathematics.
-- MATHEMATICAL REVIEWS