The modelling of failure in materials strongly depends on the choice of method for simulating these complex physical mechanisms, spreading from micro- to macroscopic scales. Whereas discrete failure simulation techniques, such as cohesive zone methods, the strong discontinuity approach, or the extended finite element method, have been dominating the field for the past 10-20 years, the number of publications using different method to approximate the failure zone is currently experiencing a convincing increase.

We invite investigators to contribute original research articles as well as review articles that seek to address modelling and optimizing structural behaviour and damage of advances materials. The special issue will include theoretical, numerical, and experimental contributions that describe original research results and innovative concepts that address the issues on failure mechanisms assessment of critical components. The aim would be to establish a common understanding about the state of the field and draw a road map on where the research is heading, highlight the issues, and discuss the possible solutions.

Original, high quality contributions that are not yet published or that are not currently under review by other journals or peer-reviewed conferences are sought on the following: experimental, analytical, and computational research on the hereafter-mentioned topics.

Potential topics include but are not limited to the following:

• Innovative failure diagnostics and quality control
• Effect of microstructure and defects on fatigue behaviour
• Failure mechanisms and crack formation
• Effect of manufacturing process on residual stresses
• Effect of process and design parameters on fatigue resistance
• Failure modelling and analysis
• Fracture analysis and integrity assessment
• Multi-physics damage modelling and analysis
• Propagation mechanisms
• Structural reliability analysis
• Stochastic modelling
• Life prediction and remaining useful life estimation