Homogenization theory describes the macroscopic properties of structures with fine microstructure. Its applications are diverse and include optimal design and the study of composites. The theory relies on the asymptotic analysis of fast-oscillating differential equations or integral functionals. This book is an introduction to the homogenization of nonlinear integral functionals. It emphasizes general results that do not rely on smoothness or convexity assumptions. The book presents a rigorous mathematical description of the overall properties of such functionals, with various applications...

This book addresses new questions related to the asymptotic description of converging energies from the standpoint of local minimization and variational evolution. It explores the links between Gamma-limits, quasistatic evolution, gradient flows and stable points, raising new questions and proposing new techniques. These include the definition of effective energies that maintain the pattern of local minima, the introduction of notions of convergence of energies compatible with stable points, the computation of homogenized motions at critical time-scales through the definition of minimizing...