Damage propagation prediction of adhesion failure in composite T-joint structure and improvement using PZT patch

Abstract

This study develops a three-dimensional finite element simulation model for the prediction, propagation, and improvement of adhesion failure in an adhesively bonded laminated T-joint structure using smart piezoelectric materials. Initially, three-dimensional stresses (normal and shear) and failure locations in the composite T-joint (all the layers of the web and flange) were evaluated. In the identified failure location, Virtual Crack Closure Technique (VCCT) of fracture mechanics was employed to compute the Strain Energy Release Rate (SERR) values for different pre-embedded adhesion failure lengths. The developed coupling analysis model was employed to evaluate the SERR responses for the laminated composite T-joint with single/multiple piezoelectric layers. The efficacy and improved performance (resistance to adhesion failure) of the laminated smart Tjoint structure were analyzed in detail by considering different influencing parameters, i.e., orientation schemes, material types, piezoelectric layers, thicknesses, and number of laminate layers.