Elements of Multifield Theories for Complex Materials

Complex materials are widely used to construct and manufacture complicated devices, especially in the field of nanotechnology. Their unusual mechanical properties - due to their articulated substructures influencing their macroscopic behavior - require suitable modeling for both scientific and design purposes. Although a number of specific models are available, there also exists a metamodel that may encompass various special cases.§This monograph focuses on such a metamodel, presenting multifield theories not only as a tool to interpret the mathematical and physical nature of elements of existing models, but also to describe possible new models. An introductory chapter outlines a one-dimensional example of a two-phase material to highlight the essential features of the approach used throughout the book. In addition to the general setting, specific cases are treated in detail for quasicrystals, ferroelectrics, and complex fluids.