Application of the Small Punch Creep-Recovery Test (SPCRT) for the Estimation of Large-Amplitude Viscoelastic Properties of Polymers.

The Small Punch Creep-Recovery Test (SPCRT) is a novel miniature test used to estimate the viscoelastic properties of polymers and biomaterials. The current investigation related to the SPCRT is limited to Finite Element Method (FEM) simulations and experimental tests on PVC. The aim of this investigation was focused on: (i) extending the experimental tests to other polymers with dissimilar viscoelastic properties; (ii) deepening the influence of non-linear viscoelastic properties in the estimation capabilities of the SPCRT; and (iii) developing a numerical methodology to estimate and take into account the viscoelastic recovery produced during the unloading step of compressive creep-recovery tests (CCRT) and SPCRTs.

Noise Disturbance and Well-Being in the North of Spain.

Environmental noise is considered one of the main risks for physical and mental health and well-being, with a significant associated burden of disease in Europe. This work aims to explore the main sources of noise exposure at home and its effect on well-being in northern Spain. A transversal opinion study has been performed through a closed questionnaire.

Cold Expansion Process with Multiple Balls-Numerical Simulation and Comparison with Single Ball and Tapered Mandrels.

Cold expansion technology is an extended method used in aeronautics to increase fatigue life of holes and hence extending inspection intervals. During the cold expansion process, a mechanical mandrel is forced to pass along the hole generating compressive residual hoop stresses. The most widely accepted geometry for this mandrel is the tapered one and simpler options like balls have generally been rejected based on the non-conforming residual hoop stresses derived from their use.