This book introduces field theory as required in solid and fluid mechanics as well as in electromagnetism. It includes the necessary applied mathematical framework of tensor algebra and tensor calculus, using an inductive approach particularly suited to beginners. It is geared toward undergraduate classes in continuum theory for engineers in general, and more specifically to courses in continuum mechanics. Students will gain a sound basic understanding of the subject as well as the ability to solve engineering problems by applying the general laws of nature in terms of the balances for mass, momentum, and energy in combination with material-specific relations in terms of constitutive equations, thus learning how to use the theory in practice for themselves. This is facilitated by numerous examples and problems provided throughout the text.

This book presents a liber amicorum dedicated to Wolfgang H. Müller, and highlights recent advances in Prof. Müller’s major fields of research: continuum mechanics, generalized mechanics, thermodynamics, mechanochemistry, and geomechanics. Over 50 of Prof. Müller’s friends and colleagues contributed to this book, which commemorates his 60th birthday and was published in recognition of his outstanding contributions.

This book presents an in-depth continuum mechanics analysis of the deformation due to self-gravitation in terrestrial objects, such as the inner planets, rocky moons and asteroids. Following a brief history of the problem, modern continuum mechanics tools are presented in order to derive the underlying field equations, both for solid and fluid material models. Various numerical solution techniques are discussed, such as Runge-Kutta integration, series expansion, finite differences, and (adaptive) FE analysis. Analytical solutions for selected special cases, which are worked out in detail, are also included. All of these methods are then applied to the problem, quantitative results are compared, and the pros and cons of the analytical solutions and of all the numerical methods are discussed. The book culminates in a multi-layer model for planet Earth according to the PREM Model (Preliminary Earth Model) and in a viscoelastic analysis of the deformation problem, all from the viewpoint of rational continuum theory and numerical analysis.

This book presents current trends in Mechanics of Time Dependent Materials. It covers a number of cutting-edge themes, such as characterization of linear and nonlinear mechanical behavior of viscoelastic materials and their composites, taking into consideration large deformations, low, moderate and large strain rates, as well as failure and fracture phenomena. The contributions are inspired by advanced applications in modern technologies, such as injection molding and extrusion.

The theory of plasticity is a branch of solid mechanics that investigates the relationship between permanent deformation and load, and the distribution of stress and strains of materials and structures beyond their elastic limit. Engineering plasticity underpins the safety of many modern systems and structures. Realizing the full potential of materials as well as designing precise metal processing and energy absorption structures requires mastery of engineering plasticity. Introduction to Engineering Plasticity: Fundamentals with Applications in Metal Forming, Limit Analysis and Energy Absorption presents both fundamental theory on plasticity and emphasizes the latest engineering applications. The title combines theory and engineering applications of plasticity, elaborating on problem solving in real-world engineering tasks such as in metal forming, limit analysis of structures, and understanding the energy absorption of structures and materials. The five main parts of the book cover: Plastic properties of materials and their characterization; Fundamental theory in plasticity; Elastic-plastic problems and typical solutions; and Rigid-plastic problems under plane-stress conditions. This title provides students and engineers alike with the fundamentals and advanced tools needed in engineering plasticity. Brings together plasticity theory with engineering applications and problem solving Elaborates problem solving methods and demonstrates plasticity in various engineering fields Covers the recent decades of research on metal forming and limit analysis Includes energy absorption of new structures and materials where plasticity dominates analysis and design Gives a systematic account of the theory of plasticity alongside its engineering applications

This special anniversary book celebrates the success of this Springer book series highlighting materials modeling as the key to developing new engineering products and applications. In this 100th volume of “Advanced Structured Materials”, international experts showcase the current state of the art and future trends in materials modeling, which is essential in order to fulfill the demanding requirements of next-generation engineering tasks.

In modern theoretical and applied mechanics, tensors and differential geometry are two almost essential tools. Unfortunately, in university courses for engineering and mechanics students, these topics are often poorly treated or even completely ignored. At the same time, many existing, very complete texts on tensors or differential geometry are so advanced and written in abstract language that discourage young readers looking for an introduction to these topics specifically oriented to engineering applications.This textbook, mainly addressed to graduate students and young researchers in mechanics, is an attempt to fill the gap. Its aim is to introduce the reader to the modern mathematical tools and language of tensors, with special applications to the differential geometry of curves and surfaces in the Euclidean space. The exposition of the matter is sober, directly oriented to problems that are ordinarily found in mechanics and engineering. Also, the language and symbols are tailored to those usually employed in modern texts of continuum mechanics.Though not exhaustive, as any primer textbook, this volume constitutes a coherent, self-contained introduction to the mathematical tools and results necessary in modern continuum mechanics, concerning vectors, 2nd- and 4th-rank tensors, curves, fields, curvilinear coordinates, and surfaces in the Euclidean space. More than 100 exercises are proposed to the reader, many of them complete the theoretical part through additional results and proofs. To accompany the reader in learning, all the exercises are entirely developed and solved at the end of the book.

The Continuum Concept introduces the idea that in order to achieve optimal physical, mental and emotional development, human beings - especially babies - require the kind of instinctive nurturing as practiced by our ancient relatives. It is a true ‘back to basics’ approach to parenting. Author Jean Liedloff spent two and-a-half years in the jungle deep in the heart of South America living with indigenous tribes and was astounded at how differently children are raised outside the Western world. She came to the realisation that essential child-rearing techniques such as touch, trust and community have been undermined in modern times, and in this book suggests practical ways to regain our natural well-being, for our children and ourselves.

These proceedings are comprised of technical papers, reports remarks and discussions presented at the workshop on "expansive clays and shales in highway design and construction," in Denver, Colorado. The proceedings cover the state of the art on highway design and construction on expansive clays and shales.