This research focuses on finite element-based methods for the
simulation of problems of infinitesimal and finite plasticity within
the context of the strain-space formulation. Research in infinitesimal
plasticity concentrates on issues of stability and accuracy of the algorithms
used in the integration of the underlying differential/algebraic equations,
as well as solveability issues concerning non-associative models.
Research in finite plasticity concerns the derivation and numerical
implementation of theoretically sound and physically plausible
models for analysis of the elastic-plastic response of metallic bodies
that undergo finite deformations.
Current specific interests include: development and computational
implementation of finite plasticity models that incorporate laws for
the evolution of anisotropy relative to the so-called ``intermediate''
(elastically unloaded) configuration; development of higher-order
accurate differential/algebraic integrators for rate-type plasticity.
The following image is a plot of the true stress in the deformed configuration resulting from a 3-D rod dynamically impacting a rigid wall. The material is modeled as a finitely deforming rate-independent elastic-plastic solid: