Numerical methods are proposed for the analysis of 2 or 3dimensional large strain plasticity problems. A Finite Difference program, with 2-dimensional continuum elements and explicit time integration, has been developed and applied to model the axisymmetric crumpling of circular tubes. New types of mi xed el ements (Triangles-Quadrilaterals for 2-D, Tetrahedra-Bricks for 3-D) are proposed for the spatial discretization. These elements model accurately incompressible plastic flow, without unwanted "zero-energy" deformation modes or tangling over of the mesh. Elastic-plastic, rate dependent laws are modelled with a "radial return" algorithm. The transmission of heat generated by plastic work and material dependence on temperature are also included, enabling a fully coupled thermo-mechanical analysis. A 2-D and axisymmetric computer program has been developed, Dr. J. Marti from Principia, for his invaluable expert advice on theoretical and numerical matters, and his friendly support and suggestions; Or. £. Alarcon, for his help and motivation in the initial stages of work; The staff and technicians of the Civil Engineering Department at King's College, for their help and cooperation; My wife, Tereca Marin, for her help in the preparation of figures, and her unending patience and encouragement during the research period. I would also like to thank the following bodies for sponsoring my research at the various stages: The British Council, The Spanish Government (Ministry of Education), Principia Mechanica Ltd. (UK), and the Committee of Vicechancellors and Principals (UK).