Application of linear hardening plasticity theory to cycle and path dependent strain accumulation

This paper is a combination of four distinct but closely related topics. The first is a documentation of the existence of cycle and path dependent plastic deformation. The second is a resume of existing plasticity theories to determine if any existing theory in the realm of mechanics of solids can include the observed phenomenon. The third and essentially original section involves the specialization of an existing theory of inelastic deformation. Included is a discussion of the nature of the specialized theory from a plasticity viewpoint and the application of the theory to a particular complex cyclic stress history. Equations are developed that predict, as a function of cycles, the plastic strain accumulation under conditions of constant axial stress and alternating shear stress in a thin wall tube. The fourth topic is a discussion of present experimental results in the light of theoretical applicability and suggested modifications to include a greater range of material behavior