On the description of localized deformation

Abstract A mathematical framework for the description of localized deformation, as outlined in Reference 14, is reviewed. The formulation is derived by estimating the average mechanical properties of a medium intercepted by a shear band. The mechanical response of the homogenized system depends on the properties of the constituents and the respective volume fractions, it remains invariant however with respect to the thickness of the shear band. The implementation of the framework in the context of finite element analysis is discussed. Numerical examples, pertaining to some geotechnical problems, are provided.