Finite element prediction of fatigue crack propagation lifetime in composite bonded joints

A generalised technique for the prediction of fatigue crack propagation lifetime in bonded structures using finite element analysis is proposed. The method is based on numerical integration of the fatigue crack growth law from an initial to a final crack size. The technique has been applied to carbo...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Composites. Part A, Applied science and manufacturing Applied science and manufacturing, 2004-02, Vol.35 (2), p.213-222
Main Authors: Abdel Wahab, M.M, Ashcroft, I.A, Crocombe, A.D, Smith, P.A
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Adhesive
Application fields
Applied sciences
B. Fatigue
B. Fracture
C. Finite element analysis (FEA)
Exact sciences and technology
Forms of application and semi-finished materials
Laminates
Polymer industry, paints, wood
Technology of polymers
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Summary:A generalised technique for the prediction of fatigue crack propagation lifetime in bonded structures using finite element analysis is proposed. The method is based on numerical integration of the fatigue crack growth law from an initial to a final crack size. The technique has been applied to carbon fibre composite joints bonded with an epoxy adhesive. A crack growth law was determined experimentally using double cantilever beam (DCB) samples. Experimental load-life data were then generated for single and double lap joints (DLJs) manufactured from the same materials as the DCB samples. The crack growth law determined from the DCB samples was used to predict the load-life response of the single lap and DLJs. Good agreement was seen between the predicted and experimental load-life plots.
ISSN:1359-835X
1878-5840
DOI:10.1016/j.compositesa.2003.10.002