Adhesive elements for stress analysis of bonded patch to curved thin-walled structures

Abstract

 Bonded composite patching has been recognized as an efficient and economical method to extend the service life of cracked aluminum components. However, current analysis methods and empirical databases for designing composite bonded joint and patch repair are limited to flat plate and/or flat laminate geometries, and the effect of curvature on the performance and durability of composite bonded joints and repairs is not known. This paper presents a novel finite element formulation for developing adhesive elements for conducting quick stress analysis of bonded repairs to curved structures. Illustrative examples are presented to demonstrate the effect of curvature and the effect of patch location, i.e., internal and external patches, patch size and patch thickness on stresses in adhesive layer.