Analytical models of adhesively bonded joints—Part II: Comparative study

Abstract The literature survey presented in Part I describes the major analytical models for adhesively bonded joints, especially for single lap joints. By consulting the summary table given in Part I, the designer can choose from a wide range of models which is the best for a particular situation. However, the information given in the summary table is not sufficient for a proper selection. The designer also needs to know the time required for setting up an analysis and solving it. Another important factor is the accuracy of strength prediction. Therefore, models of increasing complexity were selected from the summary table and a comparative study was made in terms of time requirements and failure prediction for various cases. Three main situations were considered: elastic adherends and adhesive, elastic adherends with nonlinear adhesive, and nonlinear analyses for both adherends and adhesive. The adherends were both isotropic (metals) and anisotropic (composites). The effects of the overlap length and the adhesive thickness were also considered.