Static and Fatigue Characterization of Mode I Fracture in Adhesively Bonded Composites Based on the J-Integral Approach

Abstract

In this work, efforts are made to further develop tests for characterization of mode I quasi-static and fatigue fracture of adhesively bonded composites based on the J-integral approach using the double cantilever beam (DCB) test. This work will address the few remaining challenges that must be resolved before standardization of these test methods. Specifically presented are the attempts to: 1) establish a robust procedure for measuring JI using specimen arm rotation and the applied load, 2) determine specimen geometry that would enable accurate characterization of the traction separation law (TSL) during DCB testing, and 3) develop a protocol for J-controlled fatigue testing without explicit knowledge of crack extension.