Second-order solution of Saint-Venant's problem for an elastic bar predeformed in flexure

We use the method of Signorini's expansion to analyze the Saint-Venant problem for an isotropic and homogeneous second-order elastic prismatic bar predeformed by an infinitesimal amount in flexure. The centroid of one end face of the bar is rigidly clamped. The complete solution of the problem is expressed in terms of ten functions. For a general cross-section, explicit expressions for most of these functions are given; the remaining functions are solutions of well-posed plane elliptic problems. However, for a bar of circular cross-section, all of these functions are evaluated and a closed form solution of the 2nd-order problem is given. The solution contains six constants which characterize the second-order flexure, bending, torsion and extension of the bar. It is found that when the total axial force vanishes, the second-order axial deformation is not zero; it represents a generalized Poynting effect. The second-order elasticities affect only the second-order axial force.