The Dynamic Mechanical Response of Carpets: An Alternative Measurement Technique

The dynamic-compression properties of carpet are expected to play an important role in their mechanical performance, but it is difficult to measure these properties at frequencies and pressures corresponding to those occurring in carpet wear. A new vibration technique has been developed which enables the dynamic modulus and damping loss of a carpet lo be measured at pressures comparable to these imposed in carpet wear. The technique involves supporting a vibrator on a soft spring and allowing it to activate a pressure plate resting on the carpet. The results obtained are in agreement with previously published data but relate to a pressure range which is more relevant to carpet wear. Measurements are made at a static pressure of 22 kPa, a dynamic pressure of 1 kPa, and frequencies in the range 200–600 Hz.