Mechanical deformation is the physical transformation of a material from one configuration to a different one.
The deformation can be brought on by forces like electromagnetic and gravity, external loads as well as a change in moisture, chemical properties, temperature, etc.
Mechanical deformation can be caused by strain, which can be classified into two components: shear and normal. The level of compression, or stretch, along the line fiber or element of the material is considered normal strain. However, the level of distortion related to the plane layers sliding over one another is shear strain. This kind of strain can be applied through shortening, elongating, angular distortion or volume changes.
The concept of mechanical deformation can be viewed more clearly in terms of stainless steel and cookware. Stainless steel is known to have outstanding chemical and mechanical properties. Yet, this can be subjected to various corrosion forms depending on the cooking process and the type of food.
For instance, various types of food, aging utensils and cooking processes could facilitate the release of chemicals, such as nickel, from steel that promotes corrosive behavior. Thus, the idea of mechanical deformation should be taken into consideration to prevent the harmful effects of corrosion.