Numerical analysis of the behaviour of repaired surface cracks with bonded composite patch

In this paper, the analysis of the behavior of surface cracks in finite-thickness plates repaired with a Boron/Epoxy composite patch is investigated using three-dimensional finite element methods. The stress intensity factor at the crack-front was used as the fracture criteria. Using the Ansys Parametric Design Language (APDL), the stress intensities at the internal and external positions of repaired surface crack were compared. The effects of the mechanical and geometrical properties of the adhesive layer and the composite patch on the variation of the stress intensity factor at the crack-front were examined.