Minimization of the first eigenvalue for the Lam\'e system

Abstract

In this article, we address the problem of determining a domain in $\mathbb{R}^N$ that minimizes the first eigenvalue of the Lam\'e system under a volume constraint. We begin by establishing the existence of such an optimal domain within the class of quasi-open sets, showing that in the physically relevant dimensions $N = 2$ and $3$, the optimal domain is indeed an open set. Additionally, we derive both first and second-order optimality conditions. Leveraging these conditions, we demonstrate that in two dimensions, the disk cannot be the optimal shape when the Poisson ratio is below a specific threshold, whereas above this value, it serves as a local minimizer. We also extend our analysis to show that the disk is nonoptimal for Poisson ratios $\nu$ satisfying $\nu \leq 0.4$.