scope:

Preface

THE FIELD OF FRACTURE MECHANICS has become the primary approach to controlling fracture and fatigue failures in structures of all types. This book introduces the field of fracture mechanics from an applications viewpoint. Then it focuses on fitness for service, or life extension, of existing structures. Finally, it provides case studies to allow the practicing professional engineer or student to see the applications of fracture mechanics directly to various types of structures.

Since the first publication of this book in 1977, and the second edition in 1987, the field of fracture mechanics has grown significantly. Several specifications for fracture and fatigue control now either use fracture mechanics directly or are based on concepts of fracture mechanics. In this book, we emphasize applications of fracture mechanics to prevent fracture and fatigue failures in structures, rather than the theoretical aspects of fracture mechanics.