Mechanics of mechanically fastened joints in polymer–matrix composite structures – A review

• Published in: Composites science and technology Vol. 69; no. 3; pp. 301 - 329
• Main Authors: Thoppul, Srinivasa D., Finegan, Joana, Gibson, Ronald F.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Kidlington Elsevier Ltd 01.03.2009; Elsevier
• Subjects: A. Polymer–matrix composites (PMCs); Application fields; Applied sciences; B. Mechanical properties; E. Joining; E. Mechanical fasteners; Exact sciences and technology; Forms of application and semi-finished materials; Laminates; Polymer industry, paints, wood; Technology of polymers; A. Polymer–matrix composites (PMCs); B. Mechanical properties; E. Joining; E. Mechanical fasteners; Bolted joint; Stress analysis; Laminate; Mechanical model; Fiber reinforced material; Mechanical properties; Polymer; Tensile property; Review; Mechanical joint; Modeling; Composite material; A. Polymer-matrix composites (PMCs); Non destructive method; Loadbearing capacity; Measurement method; Woven material; Fracture mode
• ISSN: 0266-3538; 1879-1050
• DOI: 10.1016/j.compscitech.2008.09.037

As the applications of advanced composite structural materials continue to increase, so does the need to understand the mechanical behavior of mechanically fastened joints in such structures. The most recent and relevant review article on this subject was published more than a decade ago, but it was restricted to stress analysis and strength prediction of mechanically fastened joints in fiber-reinforced plastics. The present article attempts a more comprehensive review of recent literature in the broader area of mechanics of mechanically fastened joints in polymer–matrix composite structures. Since experimental characterization has traditionally played such a fundamental role in such studies, the article begins with a review of relevant mechanical test methods and standards. This is followed by a discussion of the mechanics aspects of design, including joint design methodologies, considerations of the influence of geometric effects, and fastener preload selection. The remaining sections are devoted to failure modes such as bearing failure, failure prediction for both statically and dynamically loaded joints, time-dependent joint preload relaxation, the effects of temperature and moisture on joint strength and failure, and non-destructive evaluation techniques for monitoring the joints. Finally, comments are offered regarding the most important remaining problems in this area, and recommendations for future work.