Shear Stress Distributions in a Bonded Joint under Tension

Abstract

Shear stress distribution behaviour of a single-lap bonded joint under tension was investigated using the three-dimensional finite element methods. Five layers of 20-node solid elements were used across the adhesive layer thickness to get accurate indication of the variation of shear stress. The stress distributions in the joint are given by the stress contours. All the numerical results obtained from the finite element analysis show that the spatial distribution of shear stress are similar for all 6 interfaces though the stress values are obviously different. It can also be seen from the results that the left hand region is subjected to very high stress.