damage tolerance

Damage tolerance is the ability of a structure or material to withstand the presence of cracks or flaws without failing immediately. It involves designing systems that can safely endure some damage or deterioration, allowing for inspection, maintenance, and timely repair before a critical failure occurs. This concept is essential in fields like aerospace and engineering, where safety and reliability are priorities. Essentially, damage tolerance provides a safety buffer, ensuring that structures can handle unexpected imperfections while remaining safe for use.