Failure mechanisms, also known as failure modes, are the specific ways in which a material or component can fail or be damaged. Failure mechanisms are typically classified according to the type of failure that occurs, such as fracture, fatigue, corrosion, or wear.

Understanding failure mechanisms is important for predicting the behavior of materials and components under different loads and conditions, and for designing them to avoid failure. Different materials and components may exhibit different failure mechanisms, depending on their composition, microstructure, and the loads and conditions they are subjected to.

Failure mechanisms can be studied through various testing methods, such as destructive testing, nondestructive testing, and simulation. These methods can provide valuable information about the failure mechanisms of a material or component, and can be used to optimize its design and performance. Failure mechanisms can also be studied through failure analysis, which involves examining the causes of failure in a failed material or component. This can provide valuable insights into the underlying causes of failure and can help prevent similar failures in the future.