Nonlinear Theory of Elasticity

Book excerpt: Soft biological tissues often undergo large (nearly) elastic deformations that can be modeled using the nonlinear theory of elasticity. Because of the varied approaches to nonlinear elasticity in the literature, some aspects of the subject may be difficult to appreciate. This volume clarifies and unifies those treatments, illustrating the advantages and disadvantages of each through various examples in biomechanics. Applications include muscle, arteries, the heart, and embryonic tissues. The revised edition includes new end-of-chapter problems, including answers and detailed solutions to most. The useful reference can be a good textbook for self-study, as well as senior- and graduate-level courses in biomechanics and nonlinear elasticity.