This paper presents a numerical approach using the discrete element method to predict strength and damage propagation of plates and bolted lap joints subjected to axial tension. Tensile tests on GFRP plates and bolted joints are carried to obtained their overall stiffness and strength. A new three-dimensional discrete element model constructed by a 19-ball assembly is proposed and the relationships between the macro and the micro mechanical properties of FRP is established through calibrations using the test results. The calibrated DEM model is then used to reproduce the test results. Excellent agreements are achieved between the numerical and the experimental results in terms of not only the overall failure loads, but also the detailed failure modes, including cracking and delamination. The research shows great potential of the DEM model in predicting strength of composite materials and presenting detailed local damage and damage propagation at micro-scale, which represents a significant advantage over the conventional numerical methods, such as the finite element method.

本文提出了一种使用离散元方法的数值方法，以预测承受轴向拉力的板和螺栓搭接接头的强度和损伤传播。对GFRP板和螺栓接头进行拉伸测试，以获取其整体刚度和强度。提出了一种由19球组件构建的三维离散元模型，并通过使用测试结果进行校准来建立FRP宏观和微观力学性能之间的关系。然后，将经过校准的DEM模型用于重现测试结果。在数值结果和实验结果之间，不仅在整体破坏载荷方面而且在详细的破坏模式（包括开裂和分层）方面都达成了极好的协议。