photoelastic materials

Photoelastic materials are substances that exhibit changes in their optical properties, particularly birefringence, when subjected to mechanical stress. When these materials are stressed, they display colorful patterns when viewed through polarized light. This effect allows engineers and scientists to visualize stress distribution within structures, helping them understand how materials will behave under load. It's a useful technique for testing designs in fields like mechanical engineering and civil construction, providing insights into potential weaknesses or failure points in materials and structures before they are put to use.