Numerical stress analysis of carbon-fibre-reinforced epoxy composite single-lap joints

A numerical strategy based on a finite element method is developed in order to model the stress distribution in single-lap adhesive joints. The joints were manufactured from unidirectional carbon-fibre-reinforced epoxy composites joined by an epoxy adhesive layer. Experimental parameters are used as a reference to allow for the numerical validation of the proposed analysis. Additionally, joints with different types of defects in the lap region were modelled with both two-dimensional and three-dimensional finite elements. The models include defects that vary in format (straight or circular) and position (centred or dispersed). The influenced spew fillets in the adhesive layer were also examined. Although the computational cost is higher, the results of the three-dimensional model are more compatible with the experimental results than those of the two-dimensional model. The effect of defects in the joints was adequately modelled, and the proposed methodology can be used to accurately assess the integrity of the joints since the defect has been successfully detected.