photoelasticity

Photoelasticity is a technique used to understand how materials deform under stress. When light passes through a transparent, stressed material, it reveals colorful patterns, known as fringe patterns. These colors indicate areas of tension and compression within the material. Engineers and scientists use photoelasticity to visualize stress distribution, helping them design safer and more effective structures, like bridges and buildings. By observing how light interacts with the material, they can detect potential weak points and improve overall durability. This method combines principles of optics and mechanics to provide valuable insights into material behavior.