What is creep in the context of materials science?

Creep refers to the gradual and continuous deformation of materials, particularly metals, when subjected to a constant load or stress over an extended period. This phenomenon is especially significant in materials exposed to high temperatures or sustained mechanical loads, as it can lead to structural failure in components like turbines, bridges, and other engineering applications.

When a metal is under stress, instead of maintaining its shape, it may slowly deform over time, which is the essence of creep. This process can result in elongation, warping, or even eventual failure of the material if the conditions persist. Creep is a critical consideration in design and materials selection, particularly for applications that demand long-term reliability under sustained loads.

Understanding creep helps engineers design materials and structures that can endure operating conditions without compromising integrity, particularly in high-temperature and high-stress environments.