A thermomechanical framework for rate-independent dissipative materials with internal functions

This paper builds on previous work by Houlsby and Puzrin (Int. J. Plasticity 16 (2000) 1017) in which a framework was set out for the derivation of rate-independent plasticity theory from thermodynamic considerations. A key feature of the formalism is that the entire constitutive response is determined by knowledge of two scalar functions. The loading history is effectively captured through the use of internal variables. In this paper, we extend the concept of internal variables to that of internal functions, which represent infinite numbers of internal variables. In this case the thermodynamic functions are replaced by functionals. We set out the formalism necessary to derive constitutive behaviour within this approach. The principal advantages of this development is that it can provide realistic modelling of kinematic hardening effects and smooth transitions between elastic and elastic–plastic behaviour.