Their research led to the establishment of an ASTM Standard test method for determining resistance to stable crack extension under low-constraint conditions.
During an 18-month sabbatical at NASA Langley (1992–93) sponsored by Charles E. Harris, Sutton worked directly with James C. Newman Jr, David Dawicke, Robert Piascik, Edward Phillips and Buddy Poe on issues related to crack extension as part of the US Aging Aircraft Program.
During this time, Sutton was exposed to the critical need for a field-capable, three-dimensional deformation measurement system that could be used on full-scale aero-structures undergoing complex loading.
With this information and with Harris' support, Sutton and Stephen McNeill worked with their student Jeffrey Helm, to modify the StereoDIC algorithms and define a simpler, field-capable calibration process.
[7][8] These experiments conclusively demonstrated the versatility, accuracy and effectiveness of StereoDIC systems for non-contacting, full-field deformation and shape measurements in both field and laboratory environments.
In the early 2000s, research scientists including Michael Mello at Intel Corporation identified DIC as a critical technology for high magnification measurements for advanced computer chip material systems.
Working with Lessner for over a decade, Sutton developed the use of StereoDIC systems to acquire accurate deformations on curvilinear arterial specimens subjected to combined pressure and axial loading.
Sutton worked with colleagues to improve understanding of advanced manufacturing processes in both civil infrastructure and selected aerospace composite applications.
The US is rapidly expanding its use of relatively rigid, prestressed concrete railroad ties as a precursor to the development of high-speed rail systems.
Imaging a concrete beam before and after application of a compressive pre-load confirms that the use of a StereoDIC system is an effective and accurate non-contact approach for measuring small surface strain fields.