Mathematical Problems in Plasticity

The object of this book is to study, from a mathematical standpoint, the problem of the equilibrium of a perfectly plastic body under certain conditions. This involves the solution of two problems in the calculus of the strain problem and the stress problem. These problems have only recently been solved, and this volume aims to give an up-to-date account of this work. The tools and methods used should be useful in a number of fields, in particular in solving problems relating to the 'evolution' of certain plastic phenomena, the mechanics of fracture, and certain optimal control problems.