Fracture modelling of composite marine T-Joint

Abstract

This article outlines a study on the fracture behaviour of representative 2D sections of large adhesively bonded glass fibre reinforced polymer T-joints commonly found in composite marine vessels. Finite element models of the structure were developed with various damage configurations in the adhesive bond lines which represent damage that may occur during service, particularly as a result of impact or shock loading. The T-joint sections were subjected to a straight pull-off load to simulate normal operational conditions of such structures in a ship. The fracture behaviour and damage criticality of the structure were numerically predicted using the Virtual Crack Closure Technique.