On micropolar theory with inertia production

Abstract

This paper presents a new aspect in generalized continuum theory, namely micropolar media showing structural change. Initially the necessary theoretical framework for a micropolar continuum is presented. To this end the standard macroscopic equations for mass and linear and angular momentum are complemented by a recently proposed balance equation for the moment of inertia tensor containing a production term. The new balance and, in particular, the production is interpreted mesoscopically by taking the inner structure of micropolar media into account. Various of examples for the term are presented.