Variational estimation of the eigenvalue for transient diffusional processes in composite slabs (Q923795)

Using a variational procedure which leads to a direct method for estimating the continuous time spectrum for the corresponding eigenvalue problem, this paper treats the two dimensional eigenproblem for transient processes in composite slabs. From a numeric point of view, the difficulty rests upon the multidimensionality of the problem but also to its time continuous spectrum. In order to approximate this eigenvalue form, a first order nonlinear differential boundary value problem is derived, and some modified techniques are used (Pruffer substitution, the replacement of the radiative boundary conditions with Dirichlet one, or supposing that the control function may be discontinuous but sign definite over the rectangle of temporal and spatial variables). Some other limitations with respect to the control are discussed.