Continuum damage mechanics

Continuum damage mechanics is a field of engineering that studies how materials progressively weaken and eventually fail under stress. It treats materials as continuous, uniform substances and introduces a damage variable that quantifies internal deterioration—such as cracks or voids—developing over time. This approach helps predict when and how materials will fail by linking microscopic damage to their overall strength and behavior, enabling more accurate design and safety assessments for structures like bridges, aircraft, and machinery. Essentially, it provides a scientific framework to understand material degradation and improve durability.