Experimental Mechanics Workshop

The definition of experimental mechanics is the investigation by experimental means of the mechanical behaviour of engineering systems subjected to load. The system can be a structure, a material, soft matter such as human tissue, a fluid-structure coupling; the list is practically endless. Implicit in the definition is that a measurement is made to capture a quantity that describes the system's behaviour. A key enabler in experimental mechanics is application of imaging systems to derive physical quantities such as deformation, temperature, stress and strain without the need to contact the structure with the sensor. Imaging is also used to visualise defects and damage in materials and structures. The imaging techniques are classified as full-field non-contact techniques.

Experimental mechanics approaches have much to offer, so it is the purpose of the course is to provide a detailed insight to the physics and the methodologies used in the application and operation of the techniques. From a design perspective, the necessity for experimental data to calibrate and validate numerical models of systems manufactured from complex nonlinear inhomogeneous materials is increasing, hence the focus is on application to fibre reinforced polymer composites.

Aim

The overarching aim is to provide a working knowledge of a range of techniques to allow the most appropriate to be selected for specific applications. The content will address the unit learning outcomes as follows by enable students to:

- Understand testing procedures and the adaptations required to utilise the techniques presented.

- Apply modern full-field non-contact imaging techniques such as Thermoelastic Stress Analysis (TSA) and Digital Image Correlation (DIC) for materials characterisation and performance assessment.

- Understand non-destructive evaluation (NDE) and structural health monitoring (SHM) including application of ultrasound, thermography, acoustic emission (AE), eddy current, and X-ray.

- Understand how the techniques can be combined with each other and with numerical models.

- Be able to manipulate and interpret data from experimental techniques to provide a detailed understanding of structural performance of fibre reinforced polymer composites. 

The workshop is delivered as part of a taught unit at the University of Bristol Imaging for mechanics and non-destructive evaluation. There are nine weekly online lectures starting on 22 January 2026; these are accompanied by short recorded lectures. All delegates will have access to the recorded material though University of Bristol. On 23 February 2026 a two and half day in person workshop will take place at Bristol. During this time there will be hands-on experience and live laboratory demonstrations of techniques, as well as an industrial applications keynote lecture from leading industrialists employed at National Physical Laboratory and Airbus.

Course lecturers: Professor Janice Barton, Dr Neha Chandarana, University of Bristol, Dr Pascal Lava, Match ID.

Registration deadline 15 January 2026