Entropy-based unified theory of failure threshold of degrading systems

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

5-5-2025

Abstract

Predicting the failure of degrading systems poses considerable challenges due to the inherent complexity of the underlying mechanisms and the variability in operating conditions. Conventional predictive models, typically empirical and tailored to idealized scenarios, often lack the capacity to generalize across diverse systems or account for real-world variability effectively. In this study, we propose a generalized methodology for determining the failure time of degrading systems. We introduce the concept of the failure entropy threshold (FET), derived from the principles of irreversible thermodynamics. We hypothesize that the magnitude of the FET at the point of failure represents a limiting threshold for all dissipative systems subjected to specified degradation mechanisms. We demonstrate the validity of the hypothesis through extensive experimental results across a range of phenomena, including degradation due to wear and corrosion, cyclic fatigue, and resistor failure—encompassing mechanical, chemical, and electrical systems operating under uniform and variable conditions. The findings are compared with the established empirical approaches.

Publication Source (Journal or Book title)

Newton

This document is currently not available here.

Share

COinS