This article investigates the efficiency of hybridizing composites with thin layers of martensitic shape memory alloys for improvement of damping. The non-linear damping behaviour of martensitic shape memory alloys is simulated using a modified version of Masing's rules. The model was implemented in a user subroutine of a finite element code, and validated by a numerical simulation of experimental hysteresis loops at different maximum strain amplitudes. The experimental free decay of hybridized glass fiber reinforced polymer beams was simulated using the finite element model, including the validated model of the investigated materials. The amplitude-dependent damping of the hybrid beams in free decay was reproduced successfully in the numerical analysis and it was proven that the hybridization technique is efficient for improvement of damping.
Keywords: SMA; damping; nonlinear.