Predicting the response of adhesively bonded structures under a range of service load conditions using finite element methods

This paper outlines the use of finite element methods to predict the response of adhesively bonded structures to load. This has been done by use of selected case studies each of which illustrates a different aspect of service loading and predictive technique. The loads considered include various forms of mechanical loading (quasi–static, fatigue and creep) and also environmental loading (strength degradation by moisture). Preceding these case studies are brief reviews of failure criteria and constitutive models that are commonly used and also a discussion of other complementary stress analysis tools.