Weighted Potential Methodology for Mixed Mode Cohesive Laws

Abstract

A weighted potential methodology is developed by utilizing pure mode I and mode II energy release rate experiments to determine the traction-separation relations for thin adhesive layers. The experimentally measured energy release rates act as boundary conditions for developing a weighted potential function. Thus, the tractions for any mixed mode loading can be established. Changes of mode mix during an experiment can also be captured by the law since every mixed mode variation is given by the potential function. Furthermore, by use of an inverse J-integral approach and damage type variables, the traction-separation relations for any mode mix can be approximated by use of pure mode experiments. Numerical simulations show the applicability of the methodology. The results indicate that the methodology is promising when simulating the constitutive behavior of adhesive layers.