Numerical experiment based on non-linear micropolar finite element to study micro-rotations generated by the non-symmetric Maxwell stress tensor

Abstract The main aim of the present work is to investigate role Maxwell stress tensor in study active materials. Despite importance this modeling mechatronic devices used sophisticated applications, its non–symmetry still generates controversies literature, probably because classical continuum mechanics assumes a symmetric Cauchy stress, although sum and stresses non–symmetric. In framework generalised mechanics–a more advanced formalism than one–, each material point has an associated microstructure so that micro–rotations electric/magnetic dipoles real materials may be simulated. To end, modified total formulation, including angular momentum balance, developed implemented into finite element research code using complex–step formulation. It concluded allows for incorporating both non–symmetric contributions tensor. Consequently, rotations generated by electromagnetic field analysed. influence complete magnetostrictive actuator studied several magneto–mechanical numerical experiments Terfenol–D rod encircled air, conclusions are highlighted.