On finite deformation elasto-plasticity

Lee (1969) has proposed a theory based on the decomposition of the total deformation gradient to an elastic and plastic part, and from it has concluded that the additive decomposition of the strain rates holds only approximately. Lubarda and Lee (1981) have declared that Lee's 'exact finite-deformation kinematics shows the almost universal assumption that the total velocity strain or rate of deformation is the sum of elastic and plastic rates to be in error'. Hence questions are raised regarding the validity of essentially all finite deformation elasto-plasticity theories. The present investigation is concerned with these questions. It is shown that the additive decomposition of the strain rates follows from all common finite elasto-plasticity concepts. Lee's theory is examined, and it is shown that this theory also leads to an additive strain rate decomposition, and therefore, his conclusion stems from misinterpretation. It is found that the elastic and the plastic strain rates considered by Lee do not correspond to the same configuration. They are, therefore, not compatible measures.