Viscoelastic Damping Research Articles

Cyclic response and mechanical model of a rotational viscoelastic damper

This paper investigated the cyclic response of a new viscoelastic damper that utilized a rotational mechanism to enhance shear deformation in the viscoelastic material and increase its energy dissipation. Three damper prototypes were fabricated and subjected to displacement-controlled cyclic excitations with varying strain amplitudes and frequencies. For comparison, three conventional viscoelastic dampers, each containing an equivalent volume of viscoelastic material to the proposed damper, were also fabricated and tested. Results indicated that the proposed damper had up to three times larger loss factor and five times larger damping coefficient than the tested conventional viscoelastic damper. This study also presented two analytically driven equations to estimate the proposed damper's rotational stiffness and damping coefficient. A finite element model was proposed for simulating the damper in software, and its effectiveness was demonstrated.

Progress on the Sound Absorption of Viscoelastic Damping Porous Polymer Composites.

Porous polymer composites (PPC) have developed rapidly recently, which are widely used in various industrial fields. Viscoelastic damping is an important behavior of porous polymer composites, and it can determine the sound absorption for noise reduction applications. This review has mainly covered the viscoelastic damping and sound absorption of porous polymer composites. Different fabrication approaches of porous polymer composites are gathered. The mechanism of viscoelastic damping behavior is described, and also the sound absorption properties. Followed by the introduction of enhanced sound absorption of viscoelastic damping porous polymer composites, including the incorporation of fillers, microstructures modification, combination with nanofibrous materials, and multilayer configuration, etc. The incorporated fillers can effectively adjust the interfacial area in composites, and obtain desired bonding conditions. Microstructures modification is an effective tool to improve the morphologies of both polymer matrix and fillers, which can be achieved by chemical treatment and surface coating. The combination with lightweight nanofibrous layer can increase the low frequency absorption. The configuration of multilayer composites can improve both acoustical and mechanical properties for engineering applications. It is hoped that this comprehensive review is benefit for the promising development of porous polymer composites in related fields.

Seismic Response of a Steel Building with Viscoelastic Damper with Different Configurations: A Case Study

Seismic Response of a Steel Building with Viscoelastic Damper with Different Configurations: A Case Study

A Novel Approach of the Viscoelasticity of Axially Functional Graded Bar and Application of Harmonic Vibration Analysis of an Isotropic Beam as Support

The use of smart materials and passive controllers in modern technologies has stimulated the study of vibration in elastic systems with viscoelastic damping. It is also possible to create components with precise material distribution coefficients and distinct properties, such as Functionally Graded Materials. This work investigates the resonant frequency characteristics of a beam supported at its ends by Axially Functionally Graded (AFG) viscoelastic bars using the finite element method. The set of equations governing motion is obtained by assuming Euler–Bernoulli beam theory for the beam and bar theory for the bars using Lagrange’s equations. The material properties of the functionally graded bar is assumed to vary through the length according to the power law distribution. The longitudinal loss factor values are used to define the internal damping coefficient, which is also dependent on the Young’s modulus value varying along the bar. The effects of the length-varying material properties and internal damping of the FG support bars on the force transmission TR and frequency parameters λ are examined in detail. No study has been found in the literature on the vibration of viscoelastic FG bar-supported beams subjected to a harmonic force at the centre point. It is shown that using bars formed with combinations of different materials considering material damping will be useful to keep the vibration level and force transmission at a certain value and control the frequency parameters.

Experimental and numerical investigation of a novel passive energy dissipation system with viscoelastic damper and angle-reaction controller

Sharp and significant changes in the relative angle between beam and column during earthquakes often lead to failure of structural joints. This study proposed a novel passive Energy Dissipation system (PEDs) consisting of a viscoelastic damper (VED) and an angle-reaction controller (ARC). The ARC provides mutual support to the joint by establishing temporary supports in reinforced concrete or steel frames to allow for free-angle multilevel control in the case of excessive relative angle. This feature distinguishes the novel PEDs from previous systems as it allows the reaction force of the temporary support to compensate for the loss of joint rotational stiffness. The cyclic loading tests were conducted by constructing fundamental components, and then a mechanical model for the novel PEDs was established. Numerical simulations were performed to analyze parameter variations and to provide a comprehensive methodology for evaluating the seismic performance of the novel PEDs. The results demonstrated that two mechanisms were effectively incorporated into the novel PEDs: vibration energy dissipation and protection against excessive angles. The multistage flag hysteresis curve confirmed the reliability of our theoretical model in representing this novel PEDs. Therefore, supplementing rotational stiffness while achieving energy dissipation can be considered a new approach for enhancing seismic performance in frame structures.

Experimental and numerical studies on seismic performance of a novel lead viscoelastic coupling beam

Replaceable coupling beams (RCBs) with different types of dampers have gained significant attention in coupled shear walls for enhancing seismic performances in high-rise buildings, showing superior advantages to conventional reinforced concrete coupling beams (RCCBs). Recently, the authors proposed the hybrid lead viscoelastic damper (HLVD), and its basic mechanical behaviors were experimentally studied. This paper used the HLVD as a replaceable fuse and installed it in the coupling beam to form a new RCB, i.e., lead viscoelastic coupling beam (LVCB). To examine the seismic performance of the LVCB, experimental and numerical studies were carried out in the present study. Quasi-static tests were conducted to comparatively investigate the seismic performances of the RCCB and LVCB. The experimental findings revealed that the RCCB experienced shear failure with severe pinching behaviors under cyclic loadings, while the LVCB exhibited a resilient behavior, showing favorable energy dissipation capacity with a ductile deformation capacity exceeding a rotation angle of 0.04 rad. The LVCB also demonstrated excellent recoverability in repeatability tests, proving its merit for maintaining post-earthquake functionality. Numerical simulations indicated that adjusting the lead rods of the LVCB could conveniently enhance the load-carrying capacity and energy dissipation capacity of the LVCB. The isolated floor slab was recommended as a low-damage control solution for the LVCB to facilitate post-earthquake replacement.

Analysis of the physical mechanisms responsible for the Acoustic Black Hole effect

An acoustic black hole (ABH) inserted into a mechanical structure provides effective vibration damping without making the structure heavier. This property is particularly interesting in contexts where mass reduction is important. In practice, the ABH effect embedded in a beam or in a plate results from the combination of a local reduction in thickness and the addition of a thin viscoelastic damping layer. Consequently, an ABH is a weak point in the structure, which leads to the existence of local modes. An ABH can be seen as a penetrable resonant scatterer, with a high density of modes, all critically coupled. These properties intrinsically define the conditions required to obtain a true ABH effect. This definition will be presented and illustrated on examples of increasing complexity.

Erratum for “Full-Scale Seismic Performance Testing of a Predamaged Two-Story Traditional Timber Frame on a Slope Reinforced Using Viscoelastic Dampers”

Erratum for “Full-Scale Seismic Performance Testing of a Predamaged Two-Story Traditional Timber Frame on a Slope Reinforced Using Viscoelastic Dampers”

Shake-table testing of two adjacent similar building frames connected with optimal viscoelastic dampers

Shake-table testing of two adjacent similar building frames connected with optimal viscoelastic dampers

Control Mechanism and Noise Reduction Effect of CVDM on Rail Transit Steel Bridge: Experimental and Numerical Study

Steel bridge, as one of the main structural types in bridge design, has been widely used in rail transit. However, the train-induced vibro-acoustic problem of the bridge has become increasingly prominent. The vibration and noise characteristics must be more significant and complex than steel truss bridge because of too many components. Viscoelastic damping materials (VDMs) have the characteristics of both viscous liquid and elastic solid, and have better damping performance than other damping materials. Therefore, VDM plays an important role in vibration and noise reduction technology. In applications, VDM is usually combined with constraining materials to form composite viscoelastic damping materials (CVDM). In this paper, based on the dynamic receptance method and superposition principle, the coupling model of vehicle–track–bridge in the frequency domain is first established, and then the vibration and noise prediction model of a steel truss bridge with CVDM is established based on RUK theory and statistical energy analysis (SEA) method. Based on the prediction model, the natural dynamic characteristics of typical components of steel truss bridges with CVDM were investigated, and the control mechanism and influence rule of CVDM on train-induced vibration and noise of steel bridges were revealed.

Frequency-domain axisymmetric and thermomechanical viscoelastic analysis of thermoplastic composite pipe

ABSTRACT Thermoplastic composite pipe (TCP), composed of polymers and composite laminates, shows significant potential for deep-water offshore oil field development due to its lightweight and high strength. However, current mechanical studies primarily focus on the elastic domain, ignoring the critical viscoelasticity of non-metallic materials. To solve this, we introduce a comprehensive theoretical model that incorporates viscoelastic properties under both axisymmetric and thermal loads, considering radial convective thermal gradients and axial heat conduction. This model accurately predicts TCP's mechanical behavior by using stiffness coefficients, differential geometry, and radial-axial temperature transfer curves. By applying the principle of elastic-viscoelastic correspondence, we obtain viscoelastic solutions in the frequency domain, showing strong agreement with Finite Element (FE) models particularly under cyclic loading. Viscoelasticity introduces larger equivalent axial stiffness and viscoelastic damping within complex structures, which become more obvious with temperature fluctuations.

Optimal decay rate and blow-up of solution for a classical thermoelastic system with viscoelastic damping and nonlinear sources

Optimal decay rate and blow-up of solution for a classical thermoelastic system with viscoelastic damping and nonlinear sources

Advanced seismic resilient performance of steel MRF equipped with viscoelastic friction dampers

This paper demonstrates the enhanced resilience performance of steel structures with viscoelastic friction dampers (VEFDs) based on numerical simulations of building responses. Velocity-dependent dampers, which are widely used to increase seismic resilience, may increase the axial force of the column under strong earthquake conditions because the generated force depends on the interstory velocity. This often leads to plastic hinges being placed on the columns of the structure, which can lead to structural collapse via weak-layer failure. In addition, while viscoelastic dampers are effective in reducing story drift, peak acceleration, and peak velocity, the proposed hybrid VEFD offers the additional benefit of reducing base shear via the friction damper. Simulation results for 10- and 20-story buildings with the novel VEFDs show that the proposed dampers can control drift and plastic deformation in structural members. Nonlinear dynamic analysis of 20 far-fault seismic ground motion records conducted using OpenSees also reveals lower peak absolute floor acceleration and velocity. Overall, the results suggest that the proposed VEFD has excellent potential for use in the performance-based seismic design of structures because it can reduce both structural and nonstructural damage. The results verify the damper's effectiveness in controlling story drift without a significant increase in the base shear. Collapse probability assessment also demonstrates the collapse resistance of moment-resisting frames when used in conjunction with VEFDs.

Soundbox-based sound insulation measurement of composite panels with viscoelastic damping

Sound transmission loss (STL), an essential index for assessing the sound insulation performance of composite laminated structures, typically relies on experimental methods to measure. The soundbox method (SBM), a straightforward technique for measuring the STL, is sensitive to microphones’ positions. Within the framework of the Chebyshev-Ritz method, a semi-analytical vibro-acoustic model extended to composite laminated panels with viscoelastic damping (VED) is proposed for the first time. Based on the developed simplified layer-wise theory, the panel is modeled using three layers: the top face layer, the VED layer, and the bottom face layer. A closed cavity is added to the model as the soundbox enclosure used in actual measurements. By employing the Hamilton's principle, the governing equation for the coupling system is derived, and the vibration and internal acoustic responses of the coupling system are calculated. A discretization strategy is introduced to address the frequency-dependent properties of the VED layer, avoiding the need to reconstruct the stiffness matrix at each frequency. To obtain the STL of the panel, sound pressures at external measurement points are calculated based on the Rayleigh integral. The proposed model is validated against numerical results from finite element analyses. The influences of the microphone position inside and outside the cavity on the measured STL are studied. Furthermore, parametric studies over the microphones' positions are performed to enhance the SBM-based evaluation of the composite panel's sound insulation performance. The optimal locations for two internal microphones and one external microphone are recommended. Finally, experimental studies are carried out to guide the implementation of the SBM.

New theory to explain the effect of lactose fines on the performance of adhesive mixtures for inhalation

A new theory for the dispersibility enhancing effect of excipient fines for adhesive mixtures for inhalation is presented in this paper, while at the same time the shortcomings of current hypotheses are discussed. The proposed mechanism, denoted the ‘viscoelastic damping effect’, states that the presence of fines particles acts to dampen the collisions between carrier particles during mixing. As a consequence, fewer fine particles are ‘irreversibly’ pressed into the carriers, which in turn entails a higher fine particle fraction. The mechanism was demonstrated experimentally at different levels of added lactose fines by studying the influence of processing on fine particle fraction. This approach furthermore enabled quantification of the effect. All fine particles present in the blend (APIs and excipient fines) act together to exert the damping effect. The proposed mechanism is able to explain the main body of published data, including the effect of added excipient fines, the effect of an increased drug load, and the effect of removal of carrier fines. The viscoelastic damping mechanism is general in nature and conveys a broader and more general understanding of the behavior of adhesive mixtures for inhalation.

Proposal of a Design Procedure for Steel Frames with Viscoelastic Dampers

Proposal of a Design Procedure for Steel Frames with Viscoelastic Dampers

Mechano-Responsive Polymers and Nanocomposites: Recent Advances for Self-Adaptive Structural Applications.

Polymer nanocomposites exhibiting remarkable mechanical properties are a focus of research for decades in structural applications. However, their practical application faces challenges due to poor interfacial load transfer, nanofiller dispersion, and processing limitations. These issues are critical in achieving stiff, strong, lightweight, and structurally integrated materials. Additionally, they often suffer from predetermined properties, which may not be effective under specific loading conditions. Addressing these challenges, the development of design strategies for mechano-responsive materials has advanced, enabling self-adaptive properties that respond to various mechanical stimuli. Drawing inspiration from natural systems, these approaches have been implemented in synthetic material systems, leveraging the design flexibility of nanocomposites as needed. Key focus areas include exploring mechanoradical reactions for dynamic mechano-responsiveness, as well as utilizing biomimetic mineralization and mechanical training for self-strengthening. This work also examines multistability, enabling on-demand deformation of materials and structures. Recent advancements in viscoelastic damping and nonreciprocal materials are discussed, highlighting their potential for directional energy absorption, transmission, and vibration control. Despite the need for significant improvements for real-world applications, mechano-responsive polymers and nanocomposites are expected to offer enormous opportunities not only in structural applications but also in other fields such as biomedical engineering, energy harvesting, and soft robotics.

A review of the effect of temperature on the performance of viscoelastic dampers

Abstract This paper introduces structure and characteristics of viscoelastic damper and analyses the effect of temperature on its performance. Elastic damper is a kind of damping device which mainly relies on the hysteretic energy dissipation characteristic of viscoelastic material to realize the purpose of structural shock absorption. It is widely used in vibration control of mechanical equipment and building structures. However, in the application and research of viscoelastic dampers, it is found that temperature has a significant effect on their performance. This paper first introduces the basic concept of viscoelastic dampers, and points out that there are few papers discussing the effect of temperature on viscoelastic dampers in recent years. In the second part of this paper, the structural composition and characteristics of viscoelastic dampers and viscoelastic materials are introduced. After that, this paper introduces the influence of temperature on the performance of viscoelastic damper from various aspects, and then focuses on the analysis of the influence of temperature on the energy dissipation performance of the damper.

Material Testing for Physicists: Unraveling the Dissipative Nature of Silicone Elastomers via Ball Drop Testing

AbstractIsaac Newton once contemplated the fall of an apple, setting in motion a revolution in the understanding of gravity. In a similar spirit of curiosity and inquiry, here a journey is embarked upon to explore the intricate world of viscoelastic damping for polydimethylsiloxanes (PDMS). Inspired by the notion that even the simplest of phenomena can yield profound insights, a novel approach to study damping in silicone elastomers through a simple ball drop test is introduced. This novel solution allowes for precise measuring and analyzing the material's damping characteristics under various conditions. By carefully controlling the release and monitoring, the response of the falling ball by simple video tracking, valuable insights into the key viscoelastic properties of silicone blends are extracted, including rebound resilience, Young's modulus, and complex modulus. Through the analysis of trajectory data generated during the sphere's interaction with the silicone damper, dynamic and static material parameters are determined. Remarkably, these outcomes closely align with results obtained from cost‐intensive and high‐maintenance industrial measurement setups such as dynamic thermomechanical analysis (DTMA) or tensile testing. This approach not only simplifies the complexity of the system but also offers a cost‐effective and efficient means of gaining essential knowledge in material science.

Efficient strategy for topology optimization of stochastic viscoelastic damping structures

In this study, the dynamic topology optimization (TO) of stochastic viscoelastic damping structures (VDSs) is performed for the first time. However, the expensive computation cost seriously hinders the TO process. To address this problem, an efficient strategy is proposed. On the one hand, in the stochastic structural response analysis, a fully adaptive method based on direct probability integral method is presented to determine the number and locations of samples. Meanwhile, to improve the computational efficiency of structural response for each sample, a piecewise model-order reduction method based on Krylov subspace is adopted to generate the orthonormal basis and project the original large-scale system onto a low-order system. On the other hand, to overcome the optimization challenge arising from large number of design variables in the density-based topology method, a material-field series-expansion method is employed to describe the topology layout and significantly reduce the number of design variables. Moreover, the sensitivity of the optimization model is derived by the adjoint method and the method of moving asymptotes (MMA) is used to efficiently update the design variables. Some numerical examples comprehensively demonstrate the effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed strategy. The results indicate that the uncertainty of structural parameters greatly affect both the topology layout of VDS and vibration damping capacity.