On non-linear Beltrami-Mitchell equations

Beltrami-Mitchell equations for non-linear elasticity theory are derived using the first Piola-Kirchhoff stress and the deformation gradient tensors as field variables so as to yield linear equilibrium and compatibility equations, respectively. In the derivation it is assumed that a strain energy density and, correspondingly, a complementary strain energy density exist, and satisfy the axiom of objectivity. Substitution for the deformation gradient in the compatibility equations yields non-linear differential equations in terms of the first Piola-Kirchhoff stress tensor which may be regarded as the Beltrami-Mitchell equations of non-linear elasticity. The equations are also derived for “semi-linear” isotropic elastic materials and the theory is illustrated by three simple examples.