Classical Continuum Mechanics

This book explores the foundation of continuum mechanics and constitutive theories of materials using understandable notations. Written using clear language to explore this mathematically demanding area of mechanical engineering, the book provides a thorough guide to continuum mechanics. Updated throughout for the second edition, the book adds new material aimed at defining classical continuum mechanics, discussing its limitations, and illustrating key concepts.

New to the second edition is a chapter on advanced topics in classical continuum mechanics, defining and illustrating the type of physics that can be considered under calculus of variations and energy methods. Placing special emphasis on both matrix and vector notations, it presents material using these notations whenever possible. Establishing the tensorial nature of strain measures and influence of rotation of frames on various measures, the book illustrates the physical meaning of the components of strains, presents the polar decomposition of deformation, and provides the definitions and measures of stress.

The book will be of interest to graduate students, with the objective of preparing them for advanced research or for advanced applications of continuum mechanics. Additionally, the new edition includes a solutions manual, aiding lecturers and those pursuing self-study.