tertiary creep

Tertiary creep refers to the final stage of material deformation under constant stress, where the material exhibits rapid and accelerating deformation. During this phase, microscopic damage such as cracks and voids develop and grow within the material, weakening its structure. As these defects increase, the material becomes more susceptible to failure, leading to eventual rupture. This stage indicates that the material can no longer sustain its integrity, and failure is imminent. Tertiary creep occurs after initial slow deformation stages (primary and secondary) and signals that the material is approaching its limit under sustained load.