Simulating fracture in bonded composite joints using cohesive zone models

The cohesive zone model (CZM) is a powerful tool for the simulation of fracture in bonded assemblies. In this chapter the CZM is used to study the enhancement of bond toughness in adhesive joints with laser-irradiated substrates. The chapter first discusses the implementation of an interface element, incorporating the Park-Paulino-Roesler (PPR) potential-based cohesive model, in the framework of a finite element commercial code (ABAQUS Standard). The PPR model is then applied to the simulation of debonding in T-peel joints with laser-treated substrates when these undergo failure with large plastic deformations. © 2011 Woodhead Publishing Limited. All rights reserved.