Damping described by fading memory -- analysis and application to fractional derivative models (Q1302973)

We study some damping models where the actual stress does not depend on the actual strain but also on the entire strain history. Basic requirements in the frequency and time domain significant for the choice of damping model are outlined, and a one-dimensional linear constitutive viscoelastic equation is considered. Three different equivalent constitutive equations describing the viscoelastic model are presented. In particular, we study the constitutive relation in the convolution integral form. A closed form expression for the memory kernel corresponding to the fractional derivative model of viscoelasticity is given, and the memory kernel is examined with respect to its regularity and asymptotic behavior. We apply the memory kernel's relation to the fractional derivative operator, and in particular to the fractional derivative of the convolution term. The fractional derivative model is also given by two coupled equations using an ``internal variable''. The inclusion of the fractional derivative constitutive equation in the equations of motion for a viscoelastic structure is discussed.