Theoretical assessment of ELS test data reduction technique using virtual testing

In this paper a theoretical analysis of crack initiation and propagation conditions in a bonded specimen loaded under pure mode II condition is proposed. The end-loaded-split (ELS) test response is evaluated using a semi-analytical model where the adherends are modeled as two deformable Timoshenko beams and considering non-linear behaviour of the adhesive. Bi-linear elastic-plastic, elastic-softening and trapezoidal adhesive layer shear behaviours (ALSBs) have been implemented and studied. From the results we observed that the load–displacement curve does not permit accurate evaluation of the adhesive layer shear behaviour. An alternative procedure consisting of analyzing the strain energy release rate versus shear displacement at the crack tip is proposed for data reduction of ELS test results.