Stress analysis and strength prediction of mechanically fastened joints in FRP: A review

A review of the investigations that have been made on the stress and strength analysis of mechanically fastened joints in fibre-reinforced plastics (FRP) is presented. The experimental observations of the effects of joint geometry, ply-orientation, lay-up and through-thickness pressure on the joint behaviour are described briefly for both single and multi-fastener joints. The analytical and numerical methods of stress analysis required before trying to predict failure are discussed. The numerical approaches cover both two and three-dimensional models and the effects of clearance, friction and geometry are assessed. The several methods that have been used to predict failure in single or multi-fastener joints are described. It is concluded that there are some issues that require further investigation. There is no general agreement about the method that should be used to predict failure, but progressive damage models are quite promising since important aspects of the joint's behaviour can be modelled using this approach. In order to take into consideration several factors related to joint strength the use of three-dimensional models is suggested. These models require a three-dimensional failure criterion and an appropriate property degradation law.