Strain Tensor Based on Clifford Algebra

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The discussion focuses on the formulation of the displacement gradient tensor H in continuum mechanics, specifically its decomposition into the infinitesimal strain tensor epsilon and the rigid body rotation tensor Omega. The infinitesimal strain tensor is defined as epsilon=(H+H^t)/2, while Omega=(H-H^t)/2 captures the rotation during deformation. The use of the Dirac operator in Clifford analysis is questioned, as it seems inadequate for generating the strain tensor, suggesting that a dyadic product might be necessary. The participants express a lack of satisfactory references or clarity in existing literature regarding these relationships. The main inquiries revolve around generating the strain tensor using Clifford analysis and the proper definition of the gradient operator in this context.
Arash1950
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Let u=u_i e_i be the displacement field of a continuum body. Then the displacement gradient tensor H based on classical formulation is given by H=grad u = u_{i,j} e_i \otimes e_j, where \otimes represents tensor product.H is decomposed intro two parts. Namely, H=epsilon+Omega. The infinitesimal strain tensor is given by epsilon=(H+H^t)/2, where H^t=transose(H). In component form, we have epsilon_{ij}=(u_{i,j}+u_{j,i})/2. On the other hand, Omega=(H-H^t)/2 describes the rigid body rotation during deformation.

In Clifford analysis, the gradient operator (known as the Dirac operator) is defined as D=e_i \partial / \partial x_i. The displacement gradient MAY be written as H=Du=D.u+D^u (I think this is incorrect).

The first term is indeed D.u=div u that describes the dilatation (volume change).The second term is similar to curl(u) that describes rigid body rotation [it is related to Omega. Basically curl(u) is twice the axial vector of Omega].

I have also seen relations of the form epsilon=(Du+uD)/2, which is absolutely incorrect. indeed (Du+uD)/2=div u=trace(epsilon)

It seems that the gradient operator in Clifford analysis cannot produce the strain tensor in elasticity. Probably, a dyadic product of the form H=D \otimes u is needed. But as far as I know, this product is not standard in Clifford analysis.

I have not seen any good relation in papers and books. Moreover, ChatGPT was not able to provide useful information.

My questions:

  • How to generate epsilon_{ij}=(u_{i,j}+u_{j,i})/2 based on the gradient operation in Clifford analysis?
  • What is the general definition of the Gradient operator in Clifford analysis? It seems that the Dirac operator "D", as mentioned above, does not work properly.
 
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