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Updated: Jun 23, 2026
10:36
Stress Distribution During Cold Compression of Rocks and Mineral Aggregates Using Synchrotron-based X-Ray Diffraction
Published on: May 20, 2018
Microscopic and macroscopic stress with gravitational and rotational forces
Wm G Hoover1, Carol G Hoover, James F Lutsko
1Ruby Valley Research Institute, Highway Contract 60, Box 598, Ruby Valley, Nevada 89833, USA.
Summary
This study validates the Irving-Kirkwood stress tensor by analyzing fluids and rotating solids. Results confirm that both interatomic forces and atomic velocities accurately contribute to stress calculations in these systems.
Area of Science:
- Physics
- Materials Science
- Computational Mechanics
Background:
- Recent studies challenge the velocity-dependent component of the Irving-Kirkwood atomistic stress tensor.
- The Irving-Kirkwood formulation includes contributions from both interatomic forces and atomic velocities to stress.
Purpose of the Study:
- To clarify the validity of the Irving-Kirkwood stress tensor, particularly its velocity-dependent term.
- To investigate the stress tensor in systems where both potential and kinetic contributions are significant.
Main Methods:
- Investigated a fluid in a gravitational field.
- Analyzed a steadily rotating solid.
- Employed analytic force-balance solutions.
- Utilized a smooth-particle interpretation of the atomistic stress tensor.
Main Results:
- Analytic force-balance solutions for both investigated systems showed excellent agreement.
- The smooth-particle interpretation of the Irving-Kirkwood stress tensor was validated.
- Confirmed the significance of both potential and kinetic stress contributions.
Conclusions:
- The Irving-Kirkwood atomistic stress tensor, including its velocity-dependent part, is validated by these findings.
- The study provides strong support for the established formulation of the stress tensor in complex physical systems.
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