Three-Dimensional Strain Calculation of Rubber Composite with Fiber-Shaped Particles by Feature Point Tracking Using X-Ray Computed Tomography

The technique of improving damping characteristics by complexing fine particles in a viscoelastic material is well-known; however, the relevant underlying mechanism is not yet established. It was found damping characteristics were improved by compounding the particles from dynamic viscoelasticity test result. Furthermore, the strain amplitude dependency becomes stronger in the damping material which the fiber orientation and the tensile direction coincide, and a large damping characteristic is shown. The focus of this study is on the interface state and strain distribution in the composite material with fiber-shaped particles and the investigation of factors affecting the change of damping characteristics. The X-ray computed tomography image of a test piece was obtained, both before and after the application of a tensile load, and all the aforementioned factors were investigated through image processing. The strain was calculated by tracking the feature points on the image to create a three-dimensional (3D) strain distribution. It was confirmed that a local strain occurred from this distribution and was suggested to be a possible factor promoting more energy dissipation.