Proposal for the Implementation of a Viscoelastic Hybrid Metamaterial Panel on the Solarium Deck of GFRP Yachts

A design proposal for a hybrid sundeck panel is presented on a selected passenger yacht. The proposed panel is a hybrid prefabricated with metamaterial architecture, which combines a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) network, epoxy matrix impregnation and metal wire reinforcement, as an alternative to the conventional GFRP laminates currently used. Bending tests were performed on recessed panels with concentrated normal load to obtain the force-strain ratio, energy absorption and effective stiffness parameters. The mathematical model developed for this case uses the theory of spring damping in series and parallel to define the theoretical stiffness constant of the hybrid panel and compare it with the experimental values obtained. The results show that hybrid panels have a lower rigidity, but due to the deformation capacity with greater energy dissipation, localized damage and progressive mechanical response. The conclusions show its advantages and disadvantages that are related to rigidity.