The understanding of time dependent crack propagation processes occupies
a central place in the study of fracture. It also encompasses a wide
range of conditions: failure under sustained loading in a corrosive
environment, fracture under cyclic loading in non-degrading and in
corrosive environment, and rupture at high temperature. This list covers
probably 90% of the failures that occur in engineering practice. The
process of time dependent fracture is controlled by the physics of
atomic interaction changes; it is strongly influenced by the micro-
structure; and affected by the interaction of the material with the
mechanical (load, displacement), the thermal (temperature), and the
chemical or radiation environment. To be able to control crack
propagation the development of testing methods and the understanding of
the industrial environment is essential. The conference was organized in
this context. A call was issued for contributions to the following
topics. THERMAL ACTIVATION. Theoretical papers dealing with the
modification of fracture mechanics to accommodate thermally activated
processes. TIME DEPENDENT MICRO-PROCESSES. Presentations covering both
the theoretical and observational aspects of creep and fatigue damage in
materials whose microstructures may exert a significant influence on
crack growth. INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONS. Submissions describing the
practical application of fracture mechanics and damage tolerance
analysis to the determination of useful operating lives. x ENVIRONMENTAL
EFFECTS. Papers dealing with engineering materials and/or components
exposed to aggressive environments, with and without temperature
effects. The response was gratifying. Leading experts responded; the
organizers of the conference are grateful for the large number of
excellent contributions.
