Investigation of Adhesive Joints for Nano-Engineering and Modeling
Abstract
This report discusses the aluminum/epoxy interface effects on the global performance of aluminum adhesive joints. Four areas have been discussed: evaluation of the reliability of finite element analysis (FEA) on fracture mechanics, nano-indentation and FTIR tests for aluminum/epoxy interface properties, and FEA models including the interface effects. The reliability of FEA fracture mechanics analysis was studied by comparing the FEA results and the theoretical results of the energy release rate for a crack in a rectangular bar. Two kinds of FE analysis were performed: the Virtual Crack Closure method and the S-Integral method; both report accurate results. Nano-indentation tests were performed with an Interfacial Force Microscope (IFM) and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) tests were performed to interpret the physical meaning of the IFM results. The test results show that the elastic modulus of epoxy changed gradually around the interface, probably due to cure history. The gradually changing elastic modulus was then introduced into FEA models. The results show that the interface effects on the energy release rate of the whole aluminum adhesive joint are significant. It is thus necessary to take the interface effects into consideration in joint design. Finally, different adhesive modulus designs were examined as promising alternatives to current configurations.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 30, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA430307
Entities
People
- Christopher H. Jenkins
- Robb M. Winter
Organizations
- South Dakota School of Mines and Technology