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 The field of stress analysis is extremely highly developed. The foundation was secured through countless classical analyses, and now the approach is widely practiced through finite element codes. However, understanding the limits of performance in terms of allowable stress levels is not commensurately highly developed. The limits of performance are now finally and firmly being recognized as an entire discipline in and of itself and this will lead to much more reliable materials applications. The design of many or most load bearing structures will not permit the single minded approach of unsupported conservatism. Future applications will be designed to integrate the basic function with life cycle costs, efficiency, safety, durability and possibly several other requirements. Specific applications that reflect the new approach likely will include green aircraft, efficient automobiles, durable wind turbines, and many other emerging technologies. Such applications as these will in many cases necessitate the development and qualification of entirely new materials. The opportunity to understand and apply materials failure characterization to these problems is completely open and the incentive is considerable.
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