Viscoelastic Dampers Market Trends

Viscoelastic Dampers Trends

Advances in material science have led to the creation of smart viscoelastic materials with adaptive properties. These materials can change their stiffness or damping in response to external factors like seismic vibrations. VEDs adjust their damping forces based on the intensity and frequency of seismic waves, optimizing their performance. By integrating real-time monitoring systems with VEDs, continuous tracking of structural vibrations and damper performance is possible.
 

Sensors within or attached to VEDs can detect seismic activity and measure displacement, velocity, and acceleration. This data is processed in real-time to adjust damping settings or alert building occupants and engineers about potential risks. Algorithms and control systems analyze incoming data from sensors and autonomously modify damping forces to maximize energy dissipation and minimize structural damage during earthquakes.
 

VEDs are increasingly used in automotive suspension systems to dampen vibrations and reduce noise, thereby improving passenger comfort. This is particularly important in luxury vehicles where a smooth and quiet ride is a key selling point. Automakers are increasingly focused on lightweighting vehicles to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. VEDs, which can be designed to be compact and lightweight while still offering effective damping characteristics, align well with these objectives.
 

For instance, In June 2024, Tenneco, a provider of passive and electronic dampers for automotive applications, introduced an innovative and highly tunable hydraulic rebound stop (HRS) system. This system minimizes damper rebound topping energy and noise in BEVs and other heavy passenger vehicles, ensuring optimal energy absorption.