On the inversion of non symmetric sixth-order isotropic tensors and conditions of positiveness of third-order tensor valued quadratic functions

Abstract

Abstract In the present paper we propose new results concerning linear tensorial algebra for third-order and non symmetric isotropic sixth-order tensors in the most general case (i.e. having not the major and minor symmetries). Such tensors are used, for instance, in the theory of microstructured elastic media. A formalism based on an irreducible basis for isotropic sixth-order tensors is introduced, which is useful for performing the classical tensorial operations. Specially, a condensed expression for the product between two isotropic sixth-order tensors is provided, which allows the obtaining of a condition on these tensors for being invertible and a closed form expression of the inverse of such a tensor. Finally, the condition of positiveness of third-order tensor-valued quadratic functions is derived. For instance, such conditions are required for computing the elastic energy of microstructured media.