1. Introduction
Recent advancements in full-field measurement methods (Material Testing 2.0), combined with increased computational power and high-fidelity modelling tools like multiscale modelling and artificial intelligence (AI), have unlocked substantial potential across materials science and engineering applications. Traditionally, material property testing and materials-agnostic modelling approaches were foundational in ensuring the safety and qualification of critical engineering components. However, the integration of full-field measurements and advanced multiscale modelling now offers a transformative opportunity for high-fidelity reliability assessments of materials under extreme conditions.
By leveraging full-field measurements, it is possible to develop multiscale and data-driven models that facilitate an accurate, invertible understanding of the process-structure-property (PSP) relationship—the core paradigm in materials science. This approach enables a posteriori insight into microstructural features that govern material properties essential for structural integrity, allowing for precise evaluation of material limitations under different conditions and aiding in optimised materials design. For instance, in the UK’s nuclear sector, full-field measurement techniques of damage such as correlative microscopy, combined with multiscale modelling approaches like crystal plasticity finite element (CPFE) modelling, are employed to evaluate nuclear power plant components under creep conditions and to qualify materials for fusion applications. Despite these advancements, there remains a limited understanding of how damage and fracture mechanisms vary across different materials and components in relation to their unique microstructural features. Thus, implementing a microstructure-informed, closed-loop framework for materials reliability assessment is essential to developing resilient and optimised structures and designing the next generation of advanced materials.
2. The aim
Objectives of this FESI Theme:
(i) To explore the technical advancements and applications of full-field measurement techniques for structural integrity across various engineering domains.
(ii) To understand recent progress in multiscale and data-driven modelling for structural integrity.
(iii) To identify challenges associated with implementing a microstructure-informed closed-loop in materials reliability assessment.
(iv) To support efforts in addressing these challenges and advancing the field.
Dr Elsiddig Elmukashfi
Lecturer in Mechanics and Materials, Engineering Department, University of Leicester
Lecturer in Mechanics and Materials, Engineering Department, University of Leicester