Time-dependent damage

Time-dependent damage refers to the gradual deterioration or weakening of a material or structure over time due to ongoing stress, environmental factors, or aging processes. Instead of failing immediately, these materials experience progressive damage—such as cracking, corrosion, or fatigue—that accumulates slowly. For example, metal beams in a building may weaken over years from rust, or rubber components may become brittle. Understanding this helps in predicting the lifespan of structures and planning maintenance to prevent sudden failure, ensuring safety and durability through proactive management of long-term material wear.