Characterization of High Temperature Polymeric Damping Materials

Abstract : An exploratory development program was carried out to find polymer systems that are effective energy absorbers for vibration damping purposes in the temperature range from 300 degrees F (149 deg. C) to 700 degrees F (371 deg. C). The study concentrated on aromatic backbone structures of the type that were known to have good thermal stabilities and glass transitions falling in the temperature range of interest. Among the types of polymers considered were various polyimide, polysulfone, ATX, and silicone materials. Using dynamic mechanical property measurements it was found that many of the polymers were effective dampers in the target temperature range. While the damping temperature range of each individual material was narrow, the range could be modified and broadened by the selective use of fillers, plasticizers, and polyblending. A number of polymers and polymer formulations were identified that have the potential for effective vibration damping within the temperature range 300 degrees F (149 deg. C) to 700 degrees F (371 deg. C). Further work on the application of these materials in structural damping treatments was recommended.