damage propagation prediction of adhesion failure in composite t-joint structure and improvement using pzt patch

In this paper, a three dimensional finite element simulation model has been developed for the prediction, propagation and improvement of adhesion failure in an adhesively bonded laminated t-joint structure using the smart piezoelectric material. initially, the three-dimensional stresses (normal and shear) and failure locations in the composite t-joint (all the layers of the web and flange) are evaluated. at the identified failure location, virtual crack closure technique (vcct) of fracture mechanics has been employed to compute the strain energy release rate (serr) values for different pre-embedded adhesion failure lengths. the developed coupling analysis model is used to evaluate the serr responses for the laminated composite t-joint with single/multiple piezoelectric layers. the efficacy and improved performance (resistance to adhesion failure) of the laminated smart t-joint structure have been analysed in details by considering the different influencing parameters i.e. orientation schemes, material types, piezoelectric layers, thickness, number of layers of the laminate.