Multigrid methods for a parameter dependent problem in primal variables

Summary.   In this paper we consider multigrid methods for the parameter dependent problem of nearly incompressible materials. We construct and analyze multilevel-projection algorithms, which can be applied to the mixed as well as to the equivalent, non-conforming finite element scheme in primal variables. For proper norms, we prove that the smoothing property and the approximation property hold with constants that are independent of the small parameter. Thus we obtain robust and optimal convergence rates for the W-cycle and the variable V-cycle multigrid methods. The numerical results pretty well conform the robustness and optimality of the multigrid methods proposed.