Open Access

ARTICLE

Comparison between a Cohesive Zone Model and a Continuum Damage Model in Predicting Mode-I Fracture Behavior of Adhesively Bonded Joints

by K.I. Tserpes, A.S. Koumpias

1 Laboratory of Technology & Strength of Materials, University of Patras, Patras, 26500, Greece

Computer Modeling in Engineering & Sciences 2012, 83(2), 169-182. https://doi.org/10.32604/cmes.2012.083.169

Abstract

In this work, a comparison between a cohesive zone model and a continuum damage model in predicting the mode-I fracture behavior of adhesively bonded joints is performed on the basis of reliability and applicability. The cohesive zone model (CZM) is based on an exponential traction law characterizing the behavior of the interface elements. The continuum damage model (CDM) is based on the stiffness degradation of adhesive elements imposed by a damage parameter. Both models have been implemented by means of a 3D finite element model. Mode-I fracture behavior of the bonded joints was characterized using the DCB specimen. Firstly, the models were validated satisfactorily through the simulation of a metallic bonded joint for which numerical results exist in the literature. To compare the models, an adhesively bonded joint between CFRP plates, for which in-house experimental results were available, was simulated. The comparison shows that the two models are equally reliable as they implement a similar theory. Nevertheless, the predictions of the CDM show a greater dependency on the mesh density and load increment than the CZM. Furthermore, implementation of the CDM requires five input parameters, some of which are experimental, whereas implementation of the CZM requires two input parameters which can be derived from the material properties of the adhesive. A disadvantage of the CZM is the increased computational time attributed to the time-consuming non-linear analysis.

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