Mixed-mode Fracture Analysis of a Structural Adhesive by Contour Integral Concepts

Adhesive joint strength prediction mostly relies on the Finite Element Method (FEM), with preponderance to the cohesive zone modelling (CZM) approach due to excellent predictive capabilities. This work aims to validate the application of FEM-CZM to the analysis of single-leg bending (SLB) adhesive joints. Thus, the geometries used for experimental testing were reproduced numerically and experimentally obtained properties were employed in these models. Upon the validation of the numerical technique, a parametric study involving the cohesive laws’ parameters is performed aiming to evaluate their influence on the overall behaviour of this type of adhesive joint. As a result of this work, it was possible to numerically model SLB tests of adhesive joints and estimate the mixed-mode behaviour of a structural adhesive, which enables mixed-mode modelling and design of adhesive structures.