The thermodynamics of gradient elastoplasticity

A thermomechanical framework for the modelling of gradient plasticity is developed within the range of linear strains. Full anisotropy is considered. Special focus is given to the restrictions imposed by the Clausius–Duhem inequality. A rather general example gives a complete anisotropic model and shows its thermodynamic consistency. This is finally particularized for the isotropic case by using isotropic tensor-function representations.