dc.contributor.advisor |
Zhang, Xiang |
|
dc.contributor.author |
Bianchi, Francesco |
|
dc.date.accessioned |
2013-07-19T15:13:58Z |
|
dc.date.available |
2013-07-19T15:13:58Z |
|
dc.date.issued |
2012-06 |
|
dc.identifier.uri |
http://dspace.lib.cranfield.ac.uk/handle/1826/7992 |
|
dc.description.abstract |
The main objective of this research study was to develop numerical models
to analyse the mechanical and fracture properties of through-thickness reinforced
(TTR) structural joints. The development of numerical tools was mainly
based on the finite element (FE) method. A multi-scale approach was used:
the bridging characteristics of a single reinforcement was studied at micromechanical
level by simulating the single-pin response loaded either in mode-I
or in mode-II. The force-displacement curve (bridging law) of the pin was used
to define the constitutive law of cohesive elements to be used in a FE analysis
of the global structure.
This thesis is divided into three main parts: (I) Background, context and
methodology, (II) Development for composite joints, and (III) Development
for hybrid metal-composite joints. In the first part the objectives of the thesis
are identified and a comprehensive literature review of state-of-art throughthickness
reinforcement methods and relative modelling techniques has been
undertaken to provide a solid background to the reader.
The second part of the thesis deals with TTR composite/composite joints. The
multi-scale modelling technique was firstly applied to predict delamination behaviour
of mode-I and in mode-II test coupons. The bridging mechanisms
of reinforcements and the way these increase the delamination resistance of
bonded interfaces was deeply analysed, showing how the bridging characteristics
of the reinforcement features affected the delamination behaviour. The
modelling technique was then applied to a z-pin reinforced composite T-joint
structure. The joint presented a complicated failure mode which involved multiple
crack path and mixed-mode delamination, demonstrating the capability
of the model of predicting delamination propagation under complex loading
states.
The third part of the thesis is focused on hybrid metal/composite joints. Mode-
I and mode-II single-pin tests of metal pin reinforcements embedded into a
carbon/epoxy laminate were simulated. The model was validated by comparing
with experimental tests. Then the effects of the pin geometry on the
pin bridging characteristics were analysed. The model revealed that both in
mode-I and mode-II small pins perform better than large pins and also that
the pin shape plays an important role in the pin failure behaviour. The modelling
technique was then applied to simulate a metal-composite double-lap
joint loaded in traction. The model showed that to obtain the best performance
of the joint an accurate selection of pin geometry, pin arrangement and
thickness of the two adherends should be done. |
en_UK |
dc.language.iso |
en |
en_UK |
dc.publisher |
Cranfield University |
en_UK |
dc.rights |
© Cranfield University, 2012. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be
reproduced without the written permission of the copyright holder. |
en_UK |
dc.title |
Numerical modelling of through-thickness reinforced structural joints |
en_UK |
dc.type |
Thesis or dissertation |
en_UK |
dc.type.qualificationlevel |
Doctoral |
en_UK |
dc.type.qualificationname |
PhD |
en_UK |