A numerical sensitivity analysis on the cohesive parameters of a carbon-steel single lap joint

One of the key issues concerning the use of composite materials in the construction of steel ships, or vice versa, the use of steel in the construction of composite ships, is related to the ways of joining composite parts to the adjacent steel structure. Carbon-steel joints are of increasing interest for the maritime industry, but knowledge is scarce. Applications of adhesive joints as an alternative method to welding or riveting has numerous advantages. Still, gathering more information about the behaviour of such joints through numerical sensitivity analysis and simulation are necessary to speed up applications on ships and marine structures.