Module overview
This Level 7 module provides an advanced and application-oriented introduction to fracture mechanics, fatigue, and damage tolerance, with specific emphasis on lightweight structures used mainly in aerospace, but also in automotive, and energy sectors. Students will develop an understanding of crack initiation and propagation under static and cyclic loads, fracture parameters (K, G, J), fatigue life prediction methods, and structural integrity assessment. The module combines analytical formulations, numerical approaches, and laboratory-scale demonstrations to link theoretical principles with real structural applications. Case studies illustrate the behaviour of aluminium, titanium, and composite structures of aerospace interest under damage and environmental conditions.
The module prepares students for advanced structural design using damage tolerance principles and supports progression to research or specialist industrial roles in structural integrity, composites, and certification.