Recent Advances in the Mechanics of Generalized Continua

A number of generalized continuum models have been proposed to describe the effects of material microstructure on the overall deformation of an elastic body [1]. Recently such models have attracted increased attention in the context of multi-scale modeling and homogenization theories. The ongoing research can be classified as
a) obtaining various material parameters, entering the generalized continuum models, from the known microstructure,
b) development of corresponding numerical techniques, capable to handle differential equations of higher order with small material parameters.
The purpose of this mini-symposium is to bring together researchers to discuss these both aspects of the mechanics of generalized continua, as well as experimental studies and the possible applications.