Theoretical Modelling of thermo-chemo-mechanics of solids: a review

Key words:  Thermo-chemo-mechanical coupling, continuum mechanics, phase field, peridynamics.

Abstract:

Multi-field coupling problems concerning species transport, heat exchange, substance changes and mechanical deformation widely exist in such cases as curing of early age concretes, response of soft materials, oxidation of metals, lithiation or de-lithiation of Li ion batteries and self-healing of biological tissues. Thermo-chemo-mechanically coupled dynamical processes are the common features of these problems and a theoretical study on them is of great significance. This work aims to provide a comprehensive review of advanced theoretical models addressing thermo-chemo-mechanical behavior in solid materials. First, we outline the thermo-chemo-mechanical coupling phenomena observed in various application scenarios. Then, we review the theoretical developments in thermo-mechanical coupling, chemo-mechanical coupling, and thermo-chemo-mechanical coupling, respectively. Finally, we highlight the challenges faced by thermo-chemo-mechanical coupling research and outline future prospects and directions for this field.