Analytical model of the double-lap bonded joints response to harmonic loads

The main concern of this paper is to establish an analytical solution giving the shear stress profile in a double-lap adhesive joint subjected to harmonic loading. The proposed model is based on the improved “shear-lag” model assuming a linear shear strain distribution in the adherends. The modified shear-lag model is equivalent to the simple shear-lag model when the shear stiffness of the adhesive is insignificant when compared to the shear stiffness of the adherends. We compared the modified and simple shear-lag models to a finite element model when both shear stiffnesses are comparable. It comes out that our modified shear-lag model is closer to the finite element model. Subsequently, we analysed results of our model in terms of newly proposed dimensionless parameters. This study was limited to frequencies lower than a critical defined one and to elastic behaviour of both adherends and adhesive.

► We are interested in the harmonic response of double-lap joints.
► We extended the improved quasi-static shear-lag model to consider harmonic response.
► Our modified shear-lag model is more accurate than the simple shear-lag model.
► The solution is expressed in terms of dimensionless parameters.