We introduce a mathematical model, based on networks, for the elasticity and plasticity of materials. We define the tension tensor for a periodic graph in a Euclidean space, and we show that the tension tensor expresses elasticity under deformation. Plasticity is induced by local moves on a graph. The graph is described in terms of the weights of edges, and we discuss how these weights affect the plasticity.
Keywords: discrete harmonic maps; periodic weighted graphs; polymer networks.
© 2022 The Authors.