Inelastic Analysis of Structures

The modeling of mechanical properties of materials and structures is a complex and wide-ranging subject. In some applications, it is sufficient to assume that the material remains elastic, i.e. that the deformation process is fully reversible and the stress is a unique function of strain. However, such a simplified assumption is appropriate only within a limited range, and in general must be replaced by a more realistic approach that takes into account the inelastic processes such as plastic yielding or cracking.

This book presents a comprehensive treatment of the most important areas of plasticity and of time-dependent inelastic behavior (viscoplasticity of metals, and creep and shrinkage of concrete). It covers structural aspects such as:

* incremental analysis

* limit analysis

* shakedown analysis

* optimal design

* beam structures subjected to bending and torsion

* yield line theory of plates

* slip line theory

* size effect in structures

* creep and shrinkage effects in concrete structures.

The following aspects of the advanced material modeling are presented:

* yield surfaces for metals and plastic-frictional materials

* hardening and softening

* stress-return algorithms

* large-strain formulations

* thermodynamic framework

* microplane models

* localization of plastic strain.

Inelastic Analysis of Structures is a textbook for basic and advanced courses on plasticity, with a slight emphasis on structural engineering applications, but with a wealth of material for geotechnical, mechanical, aerospace, naval, petroleum and nuclear engineers. The text is constructed in a very didactical way, while the mathematics has been kept rigorous.