In this book I present, in a systematic form, some local theorems on existence, uniqueness, and analytic dependence on the load, which I have recently obtained for some types of boundary value problems of finite elasticity. Actually, these results concern an n-dimensional (n ~ 1) formal generalization of three-dimensional elasticity. Such a generalization, be sides being quite spontaneous, allows us to consider a great many inter esting mathematical situations, and sometimes allows us to clarify certain aspects of the three-dimensional case. Part of the matter presented is unpublished; other arguments have been only partially published and in lesser generality. Note that I concentrate on simultaneous local existence and uniqueness; thus, I do not deal with the more general theory of exis tence. Moreover, I restrict my discussion to compressible elastic bodies and I do not treat unilateral problems. The clever use of the inverse function theorem in finite elasticity made by STOPPELLI [1954, 1957a, 1957b], in order to obtain local existence and uniqueness for the traction problem in hyperelasticity under dead loads, inspired many of the ideas which led to this monograph. Chapter I aims to give a very brief introduction to some general concepts in the mathematical theory of elasticity, in order to show how the boundary value problems studied in the sequel arise. Chapter II is very technical; it supplies the framework for all sub sequent developments.

This book provides a systematic and self-consistent introduction to the nonlinear continuum mechanics of solids, from the main axioms to comprehensive aspects of the theory. The objective is to expose the most intriguing aspects of elasticity and viscoelasticity with finite strains in such a way as to ensure mathematical correctness, on the one hand, and to demonstrate a wide spectrum of physical phenomena typical only of nonlinear mechanics, on the other.A novel aspect of the book is that it contains a number of examples illustrating surprising behaviour in materials with finite strains, as well as comparisons between theoretical predictions and experimental data for rubber-like polymers and elastomers.The book aims to fill a gap between mathematicians specializing in nonlinear continuum mechanics, and physicists and engineers who apply the methods of solid mechanics to a wide range of problems in civil and mechanical engineering, materials science, and polymer physics. The book has been developed from a graduate course in applied mathematics which the author has given for a number of years.

Although finite elasticity theory has its roots in the nineteenth century, its development was largely neglected until the end of the Second World War. Since then it has attracted a substantial amount of attention and considerable progress has been made both in our understanding of the basis of the subject and in its applications. It occurred to me about three years ago that finite elasticity had reached a level of development at which an international symposium on the subject was overdue. Accordingly, with strong encouragement from Professor P. M. Naghdi and numerous other colleagues, I submitted to the International Union of Theoretical and Applied Mechanics a proposal for their support of such a symposium to be held at Lehigh University during the period August 10-15, 1980. The proposal received enthusiastic support from the International Union and an international scientific committee under my chairmanship, consisting of Professors G. Fichera (Rome), W. T. Koiter (Delft), L. I. Sedov (Moscow), and A. J. M. Spencer (Nottingham), was assigned responsibility for the scientific program. In constructing the program we aimed at as broad a coverage as possible of the many aspects of the subject on which significant progress is currently being made. These range from theoretical studies of existence and uniqueness of solutions of the governing equations of finite elasticity theory to experimental studies of its application to such problems as tear resistance and friction in vulcanized rubbers.

This book presents both differential equation and integral formulations of boundary value problems for computing the stress and displacement fields of solid bodies at two levels of approximation - isotropic linear theory of elasticity as well as theories of mechanics of materials. Moreover, the book applies these formulations to practical solutions in detailed, easy-to-follow examples. Advanced Mechanics of Materials and Applied Elasticity presents modern and classical methods of analysis in current notation and in the context of current practices. The author's well-balanced choice of topics, clear and direct presentation, and emphasis on the integration of sophisticated mathematics with practical examples offer students in civil, mechanical, and aerospace engineering an unparalleled guide and reference for courses in advanced mechanics of materials, stress analysis, elasticity, and energy methods in structural analysis.

Containing case studies and examples, the book aims to cover extensive research particularly on surface stress and topics related to the variational approach to the subject, and non-standard topics such as the rigorous treatment of constraints and a full discussion of algebraic inequalities associated with realistic material behaviour, and their implications. Serving as an introduction to the basic elements of Finite Elasticity, this textbook is the cornerstone for any graduate-level on the topic, while also providing a template for a host of theories in Solid Mechanics.

More than fifty years ago, Professor R. S. Rivlin pioneered developments in both the theory and experiments of rubber elasticity. These together with his other fundamental studies contributed to a revitalization of the theory of finite elasticity, which had been dormant, since the basic understanding was completed in the nineteenth century. This book with chapters on foundation, models, universal results, wave propagation, qualitative theory and phase transitions, indicates that the subject he reinvigorated has remainded remarkably vibran and has continued to present significant deep mathematical and experimental challenges.

Comprehensive introduction to nonlinear elasticity for graduates and researchers, covering new developments in the field.