photoelastic discs

Photoelastic discs are materials used in engineering and physics to visualize stress and strain. When these discs are subjected to stress, they change the way they refract light, creating colorful patterns that reveal where stress is concentrated. By shining polarized light through the discs, observers can see these patterns, which help engineers understand how objects will behave under different forces. This technique is valuable for testing materials and structures without damaging them, offering insights into safety and durability in a range of applications, from bridges to aircraft.