The Many Uses of Viscoelastic Materials

Viscoelastic materials play a critical role in modern vibration, shock, and noise control. Unlike materials that behave strictly as solids or liquids, viscoelastic materials combine properties of both. This dual behavior allows them to dissipate energy, damp vibration, and reduce impact more effectively than traditional elastic materials, making them ideal for demanding industrial, commercial, and consumer applications.

The History of Viscoelastic Materials

While the scientific principles behind viscoelasticity have been studied for well over a century, practical applications expanded significantly in the late twentieth century as advanced polymers became more widely available. These materials were developed to address challenges such as vibration, shock, and long-term material fatigue under heavy or repeated loads.

Sorbothane Inc. introduced its proprietary viscoelastic material in the early 1980s, specifically engineered to minimize compression set while maintaining structural integrity. This innovation allowed for more effective vibration isolation, impact absorption, and noise reduction across a wide range of industries.

The Benefit of Viscoelastic Materials Over Elastic

Elastic materials deform when force is applied and quickly return to their original shape once that force is removed. While this rebound can be useful, it often transfers energy back into a system in the form of vibration or shock.

Viscoelastic materials, on the other hand, dissipate energy over time. Their viscous properties resist rapid movement, while their elastic properties provide support. This combination reduces rebound, limits vibration transmission, and helps protect equipment, structures, and people from repeated stress.

A Vibration Solution That Addresses Creep

Creep refers to the gradual deformation of a material under constant stress. In many traditional materials, creep is the permanent deformation or failure, especially when exposed to heat or sustained loads.

Common Applications of Viscoelastic Materials

Thanks to their energy-dissipating properties, viscoelastic materials are used across a wide range of applications where durability, protection, and performance matter most.

Vibration and Noise Damping

Viscoelastic materials are highly effective at controlling vibration and noise in both industrial and consumer environments. They are often used to take abuse rather than components. By dissipating vibrational energy, they prevent noise from transferring into surrounding structures and reduce long-term wear on equipment.

Sorbothane Inc. applies its vibration absorbing material in products such as treadmill noise dampers, audio vibration isolation feet, and other solutions designed to improve comfort and equipment longevity.

Impact and Shock Absorption

Sudden impacts can cause damage, discomfort, or failure when energy is transferred too quickly. Viscoelastic materials slow and spread impact forces, reducing peak loads and minimizing rebound.

This is why Sorbothane Inc. uses its viscoelastic material in applications like KICK-EEZ recoil pads, insoles, and packaging for sensitive products.

Load Bearing and Weight Distribution

Viscoelastic materials can support heavy loads while reducing vibration and stress concentrations. As they flow under sustained weight, they help redistribute loads evenly, minimizing point loading and protecting both equipment and supporting surfaces.

These properties make them ideal for machinery mounts, structural isolation systems, and other applications where vibration reduction and load management are equally important.

Choose Viscoelastic Materials for Your Vibration Isolation Needs

Viscoelastic materials offer a proven solution for absorbing shock, reducing noise, and isolating vibration across countless applications. Sorbothane’s proprietary viscoelastic material is engineered to deliver reliable performance in demanding environments, making it a trusted choice for vibration and impact control.

Interested in learning more about how Sorbothane solutions can work for your application? Contact us or download our Standard Products Guide.