Fatigue damage modelling of adhesively bonded joints under variable amplitude loading using a cohesive zone model

In this paper, the fatigue response of adhesively bonded joints under variable amplitude (VA) cyclic loading was predicted using a numerical model. The adhesive layer was modelled using the cohesive zone model with a bi-linear traction-separation response. A damage model, incorporating fatigue load ratio effects, was utilised in conjunction with the cohesive zone model to simulate the detrimental influence of VA fatigue loading. This model was validated against published experimental results obtained from fatigue tests of adhesively bonded single lap joints subjected to various types of VA fatigue loading spectra. This model successfully predicted the damaging effect of VA fatigue loading on the adhesively bonded joints and was generally found to be a significant improvement on the other damage models considered.

► Developed a methodology for predicting progressive fatigue damage in adhesive joints.
► Implemented in commercial FEA package using cohesive zone modelling.
► Constant amplitude fatigue damage model successfully extended to variable amplitude.
► Fatigue loading represented by maximum load and load ratio.
► Much improved correlation with experimental data than the other models considered.