A model for crystal plasticity based on micro-slip descriptors

Within the framework of multi-field theories of damage mechanics we address the problem of crystal plasticity without introducing either the usual decomposition of the deformation gradient into elastic and plastic parts, or the associated concept of intermediate (or lattice) configuration. In comparison with the standard presentations of crystal plasticity we use a more refined kinematical description able to assess the effects of any dislocation on the macro-motion of the body. We apply the principle of virtual working to obtain the balance equations; the first and the second principles of thermodynamics to get suitable restrictions for the constitutive relations. A numerical simulation is worked out to illustrate the main features of the model.