What is toughness in civil engineering?

Answer 1

In civil engineering, toughness refers to a material's ability to absorb energy and deform plastically without fracturing. It is a crucial property that indicates how well a material can withstand sudden impacts or load variations without failing. Toughness is particularly important in structural applications where materials may be subjected to dynamic forces, ensuring safety and durability in constructions like bridges and buildings. Engineers often assess toughness through tests such as the Charpy impact test to select appropriate materials for specific applications.