On Symmetry Properties of Tensors for Electromagnetic Deformable Solids

As a generalization of the symmetry of the stress tensor of continuum mechanics, the paper investigates symmetry properties arising in models of magneto- and electro-mechanical interaction. First, the balance of angular momentum is considered, thus obtaining a symmetry condition that is applied as a mathematical constraint on admissible constitutive equations. Next, thermodynamic restrictions are also investigated and, among others, a further symmetry condition is determined. The joint validity of the two symmetry conditions implies that the dependence on electromagnetic fields has to be through variables involving deformation gradients. These variables constitute two classes that prove to be Euclidean invariants. The simplest selection of the variables is just that of Lagrangian fields in the literature. Furthermore, the variables of one class allow a positive magnetostriction and of the other one allow a negative magnetostriction. Some applications to (NO) Fe-Si are outlined. The use of entropy production as a constitutive function allows generalization to dissipative and heat-conducting electromagnetic solids.