ABSTRACT
Plasticity problems are much more di cult to solve than linear elastic problems. In general, a numerical method must be used, as discussed in Chapters 7 and 8. Nevertheless, several powerful mathematical techniques can be used to nd both exact and approximate solutions. In this chapter, we outline two particularly e ective methods: slip-line fi eld theory, which gives exact solutions for plane strain boundary value problems for rigid plastic solids, and bounding theorems, which provide a quick way to estimate collapse loads for plastic solids and structures.
