Quasi-static solution algorithms for kinematically/materially nonlinear thermomechanical problems

Abstract

This paper develops an algorithmic solution strategy which allows the handling of positive/indefinite stiffness characteristics associated with the pre- and post-buckling of structures subject to complex thermomechanical loading fields. The flexibility of the procedure is such that it can be applied to both finite difference and element-type simulations. Due to the generality of the algorithmic approach developed, both kinematic and thermal/mechanical type material nonlinearity including inelastic effects can be treated. This includes the possibility of handling completely general thermomechanical boundary conditions. To demonstrate the scheme, the results of several benchmark problems is presented.