Experimental investigation and numerical simulation of composite laminate adhesively bonded single-lap joints

Both experimental tests and finite element method (FEM) simulation were implemented to investigate T300/QY8911 composite laminate single-lap joints with various single-lap length and adherend thickness. 3D finite element models of the joints under various experimental parameters were established. The damage initiation and progressive damage evolution of laminates were predicted based on Hashin criterion and continuum damage mechanics (CDM). The delamination of laminates and the failure of adhesive were simulated by cohesive zone model (CZM). The change of failure modes, damage contours and ultimate-loads of adhesively bonded single-lap joints were investigated systematically under various parameters. The FEM simulation accords well with experimental results which proves the efficiency of FEM simulation. Damage contours and stress distribution of the joints show that the failure modes and ultimate-loads of single-lap joints are both related to the single-lap length and adherend thickness. Simulation of the stress distribution of joints at different loading points reflects damage initiation and evolution of adhesively bonded single-lap joints under extension loads.