Introduction to special issue on stability under finite deformation

The research work conducted by various scientists in the subject of structural stability under finite deformation are presented. A study conducted by Louis-Augustin Cauchy highlights the first derivation of the equations of motion in a solid that is already in a state of stress. Maurice Anthony Biot laid down the foundations of the theory of poroelasticity and the modern derivation of the incremental equations of non-linear elasticity. Biscari & Omati studied the Knowles material, a constitutive model of finite elasticity, able to account for shear stiffening or shear softening by the adjustment of a single parameter. Pucci & Saccomandi used the framework of non-linear viscoelasticity of differential type to show that finite-amplitude shearing motions superimposed on an unsteady simple extension are admissible motions. Roccabianca, Gei & Bigoni solved the finite-plane strain bending problem for a multi-layered incompressible thick plate.