This book provides an introduction to geometrically non-linear single crystal plasticity with continuously distributed dislocations. A symbolic tensor notation is used to focus on the physics. The book also shows the implementation of the theory into the finite element method. Moreover, a simple simulation example demonstrates the capability of the theory to describe the emergence of planar lattice defects (subgrain boundaries) and introduces characteristics of pattern forming systems. Numerical challenges involved in the localization phenomena are discussed in detail.

Christian B. Silbermann studied Mechanical Engineering at the University of Technology (TU) Chemnitz, with focus on applied mechanics and thermodynamics. Currently he is Scientific Assistant at TU Chemnitz at the Institute of Mechanics and Thermodynamics, Professorship of Solid Mechanics. This book is based on the author’s doctoral thesis.