Dynamic response of open cell dry foams

TL;DR

This paper investigates the mechanical behavior of open cell dry foams under periodic stress, combining experiments and theoretical modeling to identify conditions for optimal energy absorption.

Contribution

It introduces a nonlinear over-damped spring model with strain-dependent damping to describe foam response under dynamic loading.

Findings

The model accurately predicts static and dynamic stress-strain behavior.

Foam absorption efficiency depends on amplitude and frequency of applied stress.

Optimal damping conditions enhance energy absorption capabilities.

Abstract

We study the mechanical response of an open cell dry foam subjected to periodic forcing using experiments and theory. Using the measurements of the static and dynamic stress-strain relationship, we derive an over-damped model of the foam, as a set of infinitesimal non-linear springs, where the damping term depends on the local foam strain. We then analyse the properties of the foam when subjected to large amplitudes periodic stresses and determine the conditions for which the foam becomes optimally absorbing.