| Citation | Distinguished for his contributions to applied analysis, particularly for the advances made by him in the fundamental existence theory for nonlinear elasticity. By introducing the notion of polyconvexity and using refined developments in the calculus of variations, he has illuminated the longstanding central issue in the mathematical modelling of elastic bodies undergoing finite strain. His work in this field has great originality and power, having won much international acclaim. He has also contributed significantly to the theory of abstract nonlinear evolution equations, to studies of cavitation problems in elasticity, and to control theory. In combining mathematical brilliance with excellent physical insight, Ball is outstanding among European applied analysts in his age group. |