R-curve analysis

R-curve analysis is a method used to understand how a material's resistance to crack growth improves as a crack extends. Think of it as measuring how tough a material gets as it begins to crack and the crack grows longer. Instead of just knowing when the material will break, R-curve analysis shows how its ability to resist further damage increases, helping engineers predict failure more accurately and design safer, more durable structures. It’s an essential tool in materials science for evaluating materials that become stronger as cracks develop.