Finite element modeling of damping in constrained layer composite structures induced by inplane loads using ADINA

Passive damping for inplane axial loads can be created by special design of fibrous composites with intermediate viscoelastic plies. Conventional constrained layer damping takes place due to free edge transverse shear in the viscoelastic layer. A proposed segmented constrained layer damping is reviewed. Implementing a chevron pattern of segments for each lamina allows for more lateral motion and potentially more damping. The finite element package ADINA is used to model the composite laminates and, using the modal strain energy method, investigates damping mechanisms. A parametric study of modeling parameters is presented demonstrating the phenomena by which damping is occurring and the relative importance of each of the design criteria. The segmented constrained layer damping is found to be advantageous when small segment aspect ratios are employed.