Abstract :
We propose a new mixed formulation of the Stokes problem where the extra stress tensor
is considered. Based on such a formulation, a mixed finite element is constructed and
analyzed. This new finite element has properties analogous to the finite volume methods,
namely, the local conservation of the momentum and the mass. Optimal error estimates
are derived. For the numerical implementation of this finite element, a hybrid form is
presented. This work is a first step towards the treatment of viscoelastic fluid flows by
mixed finite element methods.
2002 Elsevier Science (USA). All rights reserved.
