A damage-mechanics-based approach for modelling decohesion in adhesively bonded assemblies

A cohesive interface model formulated within the framework of damage mechanics is presented for the simulation of decohesion in adhesively bonded assemblies. Characteristic features of the model are: the introduction of a single energy-based damage variable for describing the damage state of the interface; use of a decohesion propagation condition relying upon the linear elastic fracture mechanics (LEFM) energy balance; a treatment for the mixed-mode situation based on the definition of an equivalent energy release rate whose expression is consistently derived from the formulation. The comparisons between numerical and experimental responses obtained for typical test problems illustrate the capabilities of the proposed approach.