The Fracture Resistance of a Toughened Epoxy Adhesive

Abstract

Abstract The fracture resistance of a rubber-modified epoxy adhesive has been studied using a continuum fracture-mechanics analysis. The fracture energy, G Ic , has been ascertained over a range of test temperatures and rates, both in bulk and in adhesive joints, as a function of specimen geometry. The results obtained are described and a semi-quantitative model discussed for predicting the joint failure behaviour from the bulk adhesive properties.