Rotational invariance conditions in elasticity, gradient elasticity and its connection to isotropy

Abstract: For homogeneous higher gradient elasticity models we discuss frame-indifference and isotropy requirements. To this end, we introduce the notions of local versus global SO(3)-invariance and identify frame-indifference (traditionally) with global left SO(3)-invariance and isotropy with global right SO(3)-invariance. For specific restricted representations, the energy may also be local left SO(3)-invariant as well as local right SO(3)-invariant. Then we turn to linear models and consider a consequence of frame-indifference together with isotropy in nonlinear elasticity and apply this joint invariance condition to some specific linear models. The interesting point is the appearance of finite rotations in transformations of a geometrically linear model. It is shown that when starting with a linear model defined already in the infinitesimal symmetric strain $\varepsilon = {\rm sym} \, {\rm Grad}[u]$, the new invariance condition is equivalent to isotropy of the linear formulation. Therefore, it may be used also in higher gradient elasticity models for a simple check of isotropy and for extensions to anisotropy. In this respect we consider in more detail variational formulations of the linear indeterminate couple stress model, a new variant of it with symmetric force stresses and general linear gradient elasticity.