Uncertainty in the strength of materials and structures

The stochastic strength variations of structures and of materials are ascribed to the stochastic variations of initial imperfections and hence are described through a unified standpoint of bifurcation. An imperfection sensitivity law is employed to assess the presence of bifurcation, whereas the theory of the stochasticity of initial imperfections is employed to explain the probabilistic variation of the maximum strength. In order to demonstrate the applicability and usefulness of the present method, we apply it to extensive examples, such as regular-polygonal truss domes, concretes under compression and steel specimens under tension.