In 1950, R. Hill wrote an authoritative book, Mathematical Theory of Plasticity that presented a comprehensive treatment of continuum plasticity theory as known at that time. Much of the treatment in this book covers some of the same ground but there is no attempt to treat the same topics treated by Hill. This book, however, includes more recent developments in continuum theory, including a treatment of anisotropy that has resulted from calculations of yielding based on crystallography, analysis of the role of defects and forming limit diagrams. There is a much greater emphasis on deformation mechanisms, including chapters on slip and dislocation theory and twinning.

This book should provide a useful resource to those involved with designing processes for sheet metal forming. Knowledge of plasticity is essential to those involved in computer simulation of metal forming processes. Knowledge of the advances in plasticity theory are essential in formulating sound analyses.