A linear theory of straight elastic rods

Abstract

This paper is based on the work of Green & Laws who have given a general thermodynamical theory of rods which is valid for any material. Here, starting with the general non-linear theory of elastic rods, we derive a linear theory allowing for thermal effects. The resulting free energy as a quadratic function of kinematic variables is restricted by certain symmetry conditions. The basic equations then separate into four groups, two for flexure, one for torsion and one for extension of the rod with temperature effects occurring only in the latter group. Wave propagation along an infinite rod is considered. There are two wave speeds for each type of flexure, two for torsion and three for isothermal extension and all wave speeds depend on the wave length.