Stress-Strain Analysis of Single-Lap Composite Joints Under Tension

Abstract

Based on the laminated anisotropic plate theory, an analytical model is proposed to determine the stress and strain distributions of adhesive-bonded composite single-lap joints under tension. The laminated anisotropic plate theory is applied in the derivation of the governing equations of the two bonded laminates. The entire coupled system is then obtained through assuming the peel stress between the two laminates. With the Fourier series and appropriate boundary conditions, the solutions of the system are obtained. Based on the proposed model, the stress and strain distributions of the adherends and the adhesive can be predicted. The coupling effect between the external tension and the induced bending due to the asymmetry of composite laminates are also included. The two adherends can also have different materials and properties. An existing FEA code, “ALGOR,” is used as a comparison with this proposed analytical model. Results from this developed model are also compared with Goland and Reissner’s as well as Hart-Smith’s papers.