On the Detachment of Step-Tapered Doublers: Part 2—Evolution of Pressure Loaded Structures

One-dimensional edge debonding of layerwise step-tapered patches from both flat and cylindrical structures subjected to applied pressure is studied in the context of the general formulation presented in Part 1. Numerical simulations based on analytical solutions of the problems of interest are performed and intricate results presented in the form of threshold curves/delamination paths for various taper angles and support conditions. Configurations corresponding to full contact of the debonded segments, edge contact of the debonded segments and no contact of the debonded segments of the evolving composite structure are included in the model and found to significantly affect the predicted behavior of the debonding structure as does the manner of support. The degree of taper is generally found to influence the onset and characteristics of debonding in a nontrivial manner. It is seen that in many instances, the introduction of edge taper within a wide range of angles often enhances the structures propensity for debonding, rather than diminishing it, both with regard to the critical load level and with regard to the stability and extent of debond propagation.