Parametric evaluation on the curved part of composite T-joints based on numerical simulation

A detailed numerical model is presented to predict the failure process and the strength of composite T-joint subjected to pull-off loading. The Cohesive Zone Model (CZM) is employed to simulate the delamination and crack forming in the structure, including the stochastic crack in the filler. A series of simulations are carried out to evaluate the influence of matrix, adhesive, filler (placed in the T-joints) and the radius on the strength of T-joint. The numerical results show that the nominal stiffness of the whole structure can be affected by the filler. The strength of the matrix, adhesive and filler have great impact on the loading capability, and the failure modes of the structure may change with varying the matrix, adhesive and filler material properties. Increasing the filler radius will raise the pull-off strength of T-joints. The numerical results agree reasonably with experimental results.