On evolutionary [Gamma]-convergence for gradient systems : in memory of Eduard, Waldemar, and Elli Mielke

Abstract

In these notes we discuss general approaches for rigorously deriving limits of generalized gradient flows. Our point of view is that a generalized gradient system is defined in terms of two functionals, namely the energy functional E and the dissipation potential R or the associated dissipation distance. We assume that the functionals depend on a small parameter and that the associated gradient systems have solutions u. We investigate the question under which conditions the limits u of (subsequences of) the solutions u are solutions of the gradient system generated by the [Gamma]-limits E0 and R0. Here the choice of the right topology will be crucial awell as additional structural conditions. We cover classical gradient systems, where R is quadratic, and rate-independent systems as well as the passage from classical gradient to rate-independent systems. Various examples, such as periodic homogenization, are used to illustrate the abstract concepts and results.