viscoelasticity
Quick Summary
Viscoelasticity describes materials that exhibit both viscous and elastic characteristics when undergoing deformation. This means they can both deform under stress and return to their original shape, but with a time-dependent component.12
For example, Silly Putty, when handled quickly, bounces like an elastic solid. However, if left to sit, it flows like a viscous fluid. This dual behavior is common in polymeric solids.32
The study of viscoelasticity is important for understanding how stress waves are attenuated and vibrations are damped. It's a key concept within the broader field of solid mechanics, which deals with the stress, deformation, and failure of materials.23
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mechanics of solids…for elastic response, are called viscoelastic solids (or sometimes viscoplastic solids, when the permanent strain is emphasized rather than the tendency for partial recovery of strain upon unloading).
Read More…for elastic response, are called viscoelastic solids (or sometimes viscoplastic solids, when the permanent strain is emphasized rather than the tendency for partial recovery of strain upon unloading).
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The German physicist Wilhelm Weber noticed in 1835 that a load applied to a silk thread produced not only an immediate extension but also a continuing elongation of the thread with time. This type of viscoelastic response is especially notable in polymeric solids but…
Read MoreThe German physicist Wilhelm Weber noticed in 1835 that a load applied to a silk thread produced not only an immediate extension but also a continuing elongation of the thread with time. This type of viscoelastic response is especially notable in polymeric solids but…
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