This book summarizes the main methods of experimental stress analysis and examines their application to various states of stress of major technical interest, highlighting aspects not always covered in the classic literature. It is explained how experimental stress analysis assists in the verification and completion of analytical and numerical models, the development of phenomenological theories, the measurement and control of system parameters under operating conditions, and identification of causes of failure or malfunction. Cases addressed include measurement of the state of stress in models, measurement of actual loads on structures, verification of stress states in circumstances of complex numerical modeling, assessment of stress-related material damage, and reliability analysis of artifacts (e.g. prostheses) that interact with biological systems. The book will serve graduate students and professionals as a valuable tool for finding solutions when analytical solutions do not exist.

Alessandro Freddi was Full Professor at the Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Bologna, Italy for more than 30 years, and he is an Honorary Professor at the Technical University of Wrocław, Poland. His research has focused mainly on the design of experiments regarding stress analysis, low cycle fatigue in large machinery, systematic design of mechanical systems, and design of laboratory apparatus for fracture analysis. He is a past president of the Italian Society for Stress Analysis.

Luca Cristofolini has been Full Professor of Biomechanics at University of Bologna since 2012. His research field covers experimental stress analysis and in vitro biomechanical simulations, with a focus on orthopaedic biomechanics. He has continuing research collaboration with Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli and several overseas research institutions and has played a role in 26 national and 10 international research projects. He is a member of the editorial board of the Journal of Biomechanics.