Analytical Modeling of Composite-to-Composite (Scarf) Joints in Tension and Compression
Abstract
Fracture mechanics-based multi-level computational modeling and simulation techniques were developed to predict failure strengths of composite scarf joints under tension or compression. Global, local, and element level models were used in the study to calculate the energy release rates at the scarf joints. The study showed that explicit modeling of the resin layer at the scarf joint, where cracks initiate, was important for accurate prediction of the joint failure strengths. In addition, the consideration of the joint interface slope in the fracture model was important especially for compressive joint failure strengths. In terms of the mixed failure criteria for crack propagation, the interactive biquadratic criterion was found to be useful for reliable prediction of joint failure strengths. The predicted strengths were in good agreement with experimental data, which were obtained for two different kinds of polymer composites: e-glass/epoxy and carbon/epoxy.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA470122
Entities
People
- Todd R. Greene
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School