FINITE-ELEMENT ANALYSIS OF CRACK-GROWTH IN ADHESIVELY BONDED JOINTS

In this paper, adhesive-bonded joints are analysed using the finite el ement method by computing the strain energy release rate for debonding . Paired nodes are generated on the interfaces and released one after another in a proper sequence, modelling gradual crack growth. Strain e nergy release rates in modes I and II are evaluated. The method is val idated for a sample cracked lap shear (CLS) specimen. Bonded joints ar e studied for various ratios of elastic moduli, thicknesses of adheren d and adhesive, and total length to overlap length, for eight differen t crack growth locations along the interfaces. Theoretical failure loa ds are predicted in terms of a critical strain energy release, and mat erial properties and geometries are suggested that may result in exten ding the load-carrying capacity of these joints.