<p>This study investigates the application of topology optimization (TO) integrate with photoelasticity to enhance material efficiency in linking plates. The primary objectives are to optimize material distribution for weight reduction without compromising structural rigidity, to experimentally validate TO using photoelasticity, and to compare the results with Optistruct and Finite Element Method (FEM) analyses. The methodology involves iterative photo elastic testing, specimen preparation, and optimization algorithms to achieve accurate stress distributions and realistic constraints. Key findings indicate a significant reduction in material usage by up to 50%, resulting in enhanced structural efficiency and potential cost savings. The integration of photoelasticity addresses the limitations of computational methods by providing experimental insights into stress and strain patterns, leading to lighter components that improve fuel efficiency and reduce production costs. This approach is particularly relevant for aerospace and civil engineering applications, where energy efficiency and environmental impact are critical. The study demonstrates the effectiveness of combining TO with photoelasticity for achieving sustainable and efficient design solutions in engineering.</p> Graphical Abstract <p></p>