Application of numerical methods in the characterisation of materials and structures

In this thesis the recent developments of numerical methods in the characterisation of materials and structures is addressed by means of a commentary on and a presentation of seventy eight original publications by the Author. These publications are taken from three different areas of mechanical engineering. The Thesis first addresses the determination of the flow curve of ductile bulk specimens. Based on a critical analysis of analytical evaluation formulae, the involved error is estimated and a better approximation suggested. Next, the Thesis addresses thin structures and interphases. The determination of material parameters is investigated and it is shown how numerical simulation can contribute to obtain more accurate material parameters. Furthermore, nonclassical transmission conditions for two different field problems are derived and numerically investigated. Finally, the Thesis addresses the characterisation of cellular and porous materials. Macroscopic values for the elasto-plastic behaviour and the averaged heat conductivity are predicted for this advanced class of structured materials.