On the delamination and debond suppression in structural joints by Z-fibre pinning

The main objective of this paper is to investigate the benefits of Z-fibre pinning to improve the bonding strength of composite joints. The problem is addressed from a design point of view in order to develop a simulation methodology that can be employed to predict the strength of Z-fibre pinned joints. Firstly, an efficient and accurate computational approach is presented using the finite element method in conjunction with a constitutive model of Z-fibre response behaviour under mixed mode loading condition. The Z-fibre bridging model previously developed by the authors is summarised in the paper. Secondly, the computational approach is demonstrated via the analysis of two structural joints, namely a conventional T-joint and a novel cruciform joint. Comparison with test data confirms the model's predictive capability.