324 Computational Generalized Continua, Gradients, and Nonlocal Mechanics

 

Higher order continuum theories with higher gradients of field variables and/or internal state variables (ISVs), nonlocal integrals with support defining a spatial region with concentrated/localized physics, or continuum theories with additional field variables (generalized continua) have been developed over the past century to attempt to represent underlying material microscale physical behavior within macroscale continuum theories.   With the advent of higher spatial and temporal resolution experimental diagnostic tools, these theories have become richer in their representation of underlying microscale behavior and thus have gained added justification.  However, there remain a number of numerical methods that may be used to implement such theories computationally, including finite difference/volume methods, the finite element method, isogeometric analysis, the material point method, phase-field methods, meshless methods, and the like, such that there still remain open questions about their implementation: including (i) application of boundary conditions (essential and natural), (ii) interface conditions between micro and macro domains, (iii) adaptive spatial and temporal resolution, (iv) continuity requirements, (v) overlapped couplings with underlying direct numerical simulations, and (vi) demonstration of spatial discretization independence, to name a few.  Thus, this minisymposium will provide a venue for researchers interested in any aspect of computational generalized continua, gradients, and nonlocal mechanics to present their recent work and interact with other researchers also working in the area. Such work may include experimental (with computations in mind), theoretical, and/or computational results that will increase our understanding of the underlying physical mechanisms responsible for size effects at the millimeter, micrometer, and nanometer length scales in metals and metal alloys, polymers, ceramics, composites, biological tissues, geomaterials, concrete, etc.