Structural Models of Progressive Interface Failure under Shear Stresses

This paper deals with the problem of decohesion in composite structures containing interfaces of similar/dissimilar materials. The analysis of the tractions transmitted between opposite faces into contact as well as of the initiation and propagation of delamination zones is studied with reference to plane structures with adhesive joints under shear stresses. A simplified monodimensional structural model is formulated and applied to develop basic understanding of the standard adhesion test. The analytical results obtained are used to optimize the performance of single-lap adhesive joints in practical applications.