Bio-inspired patterned adhesive single-lap joints for CFRP and titanium

• Published in: Composites. Part B, Engineering Engineering, 2021-11, Vol.224, p.109182, Article 109182
• Main Authors: Kaiser, Isaiah, Tan, Cadence, Tan, K.T.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: A. Hybrid; B. Delamination; Biomimicry; C. Damage mechanics; C. Finite element analysis (FEA)
• ISSN: 1359-8368; 1879-1069
• DOI: 10.1016/j.compositesb.2021.109182

In this study, a bio-inspired patterned adhesive is proposed for a single-lap joint between carbon fiber reinforced polymer and titanium. Finite element analysis is performed with cohesive zone modeling to observe the damage propagation and adhesive strength of gecko-inspired hexagonal and lamellae patterns that are designed with high toughness and low toughness adhesives. Results show that adhesive fracture path and damage initiation location can be controlled by means of adhesive patterns, thereby enhancing composite adhesive joint strength. Large transitional stress peaks can be created by the hybrid adhesive patterns, resulting in increased energy absorption during failure. This work aims to employ bio-inspired concepts to path novel designs for patterned adhesive architectures to increase composite joint strength performances. [Display omitted] •Bio-inspired hybrid patterned adhesives provide fracture path controllability.•Fracture propagation follows the path design of Hysol 9360 adhesive.•Joint strength is not proportionally related to the percentage of Hysol 9361 used.•Transitional stress peaks across the bondline increase energy absorption.•Adhesive type at the edges of the overlap region mainly controls joint strength.