An Historical Perspective on Fractional Calculus in Linear Viscoelasticity

TL;DR

This paper offers a historical overview of the development of fractional calculus applications in linear viscoelasticity from the 1930s to the 1970s, highlighting key contributions across different countries.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive historical survey of early fractional calculus research in linear viscoelasticity, including international perspectives and foundational developments.

Findings

Historical timeline of fractional calculus in viscoelasticity

Identification of key contributors and milestones

Reference to recent advances in the bibliography

Abstract

The article provides an historical survey of the early contributions on the applications of fractional calculus in linear viscoelasticty. The period under examination covers four decades, since 1930's up to 1970's and authors are from both Western and Eastern countries. References to more recent contributions may be found in the bibliography of the author's book. This paper reproduces, with Publisher's permission, Section 3.5 of the book: F. Mainardi, Fractional Calculus and Waves in Linear Viscoelasticity, Imperial College Press - London and World Scienti?c - Singapore, 2010.