CT (Compact Tension) Specimen

A Compact Tension (CT) specimen is a standardized sample used in engineering to test how materials or structures behave under stress, especially to evaluate their resistance to cracking and failure. It consists of a flat, rectangular piece with a centralized notch or pre-made crack. During testing, force is applied to pull apart the specimen, and measurements are taken to understand how the crack propagates. This information helps assess the material's toughness and durability, ensuring safety and reliability in various applications like bridges, aircraft, or pipelines.