Response Dynamics in the Continuum Limit of the Lattice Dynamical Theory of Viscoelasticity (Fractional Calculus Approach)

Abstract

A fractional diffusion-wave equation is derived in the continuum limit of the lattice dynamical equations of motion of a chain of coupled fractional oscillators obtained from the integral equations of motion of a linear chain of simple harmonic oscillators by generalization of the ordinary integrals into ones involving fractional integrals. The set of integral equations of motion pertaining to the chain of coupled fractional oscillators in the continuum limit is solved by using Laplace transforms. The response of the system to impulse and sinusoidal forcing is studied. Numerical applications are discussed with particular reference to energy flow and dissipation.