Asymptotic behaviour of imperfect viscoelastic beams (Q2368241)

The problem of the lateral stability of imperfect viscoelastic beams is analyzed. The problem is examined by means of the quasi-static approach and leads to a system of integro-differential equations which can be resolved by a series expansions and the Laplace transforms. The viscous critical load is defined according to the asymptotic behaviour of the beam and can be evaluated by introducing the assumption of weak fading memory, solid material and thermodynamic compatibility.