The study proposes a novel concept of a curved single lap joint (SLJ) with non- uniform adhesive
thickness to reduce stress concentrations near overlap edges. Experimental and numerical meth-
odologies investigate this joint using two adhesives: Araldite 2015-1 and AV138. Numerical models
in ABAQUS predict cohesive failure in the adhesive layer. The curved configuration doesn’t signifi-
cantly enhance strength in SLJ using ductile adhesives, but for brittle ones, strength increased by
131% due to sensitivity to peak stresses. In conclusion, the curved SLJ effectively reduces stress
concentrations and the effectiveness of this concept is linked to the ductility of the adhesive used.