Experimental characterization of viscoelastic materials for marine applications

The application of Viscoelastic Materials (VEM) to ship structures is a common practice in the maritime field. VEM provide a reduction of structure borne noise and vibration levels onboard. In the present paper, the results of an ongoing joint research activity among Memorial University of Newfoundland, University of Trieste and C.S.N.I. Scarl are discussed. The long-term objective of this research is to define a rational approach to the optimal application of VEM in marine structures, in order to control structure-borne noise on marine vehicles and achieve higher comfort levels on board.