We will propose a mathematically lucid setting for the derivation of reduced models from nonlinear continuum thermomechanics. We will justify linearized models in thermoviscoelasticity and viscoplasticity as limits of the nonlinear deformation theory employing variational convergence.
The aim of this project is to develop reliable, theoretically supported, simulation tools for damage processes in quasi-brittle materials at small strains driven by mechanical and transport phenomena.