Analyzing single-lap joints bonded with a brittle adhesive by an elastic meshless method

Abstract

Adhesive bonding is a widespread joining technique in the industry, namely aeronautical and automotive. However, the associated products often have complex and non-standard shapes. Numerical modeling, such as that based on the finite element method (FEM), is commonly applied for bonded joint design, although there are still limitations linked to the method. Meshless methods (MM) are a viable option to overcome some limitations of the FEM. However, these methods are still in development.In this work, a robust meshless method, the Natural Neighbor Radial Point Interpolation Method (NNRPIM), was applied to the analysis of adhesive joints. First, experimental data of single-lap joints (SLJ) corresponding to four overlap lengths (LO) and a brittle adhesive were measured as a benchmark. Then, all the joint geometries were simulated utilizing the FEM and NNRPIM methodologies. The NNRPIM proved to be a good alternative to the FEM, providing similar strength prediction with differences less than 3% between them. Moreover, the stress distribution curves were compared, and differences of 6% in the peak shear stresses were found. In conclusion, the NNRPIM provides accurate results and could be utilized for further study of adhesively bonded joints.