Recent advances in industrial technology and the pursuit of high efficiency and productivity have been accompanied by contradictory requirements such as cost reduction, economies in energy and labour and process omission. In addition, many recent reports have described instances where structures have failed under quite low loads. When such a failure occurs it is necessary to clarify the cause, taking both a macro and microscopic approach, and to implement appropriate countermeasures.

Written by internationally recognised specialists, this book covers a wide range of topics associated with application and testing methods for the assessment of risk and performance behavior. A key reference for postgraduate students, lecturers and researchers working in this area, the text is designed to enhance the knowledge and appreciation of engineering integrity and its relevance to economic and strategic issues.