notch sensitivity

Notch sensitivity refers to the tendency of certain materials or structures to weaken at points where there are small notches or indentations. These notches can act as stress concentrators, making the material more likely to fail under stress, even if the overall load is within safe limits. In engineering, it’s important to consider notch sensitivity when designing components, as these weaknesses can lead to unexpected failures. Ensuring smooth surfaces or using materials that are less sensitive to notches can enhance durability and reliability.