Abstract
This study aims to determine, through a critical review of the literature, what factors are involved in selecting viscoelastic flooring systems. It then discusses how companies can use these flooring systems to their best effect in a wide variety of applications. The study extends the use of viscoelastic damper design configurations in flooring systems to a global basis, but with an emphasis on those systems currently in use, or anticipated in the near future, in the United States.

Table of Contents:
Chapter 1: Introduction
Statement of the Problem
Purpose of Study
Importance of Study
Scope of Study
Rationale of Study
Overview of Study
Chapter 2: Review of Related Literature
Chapter 3: Methodology
Description of the Study Approach
Data-gathering Method and Database of Study

From the Paper
"According to Bryner, elastomeric coatings are primarily based on acrylic, silicone, or urethane chemistry. Approximately 70 percent of the elastomeric coatings used in the U.S. are acrylic-based, F&S says. Some of the key competitors in this industry today include Degussa Construction Systems (Shakopee. MN), Sherwin-Williams, and ICI (Bryner, 2005). This author adds that one company saw "double-digit growth last year in this business, and expect to see the same next year" (Bryner, 2005, p. 37). This company, ICI, manufactures acrylic-based wall coatings that are primarily used on "tilt-up" buildings--a type of construction where walls are cast on-site and then "tilted up" in place--and in particular, prison buildings. The company says these coatings accounted for 2 percent of its 2004 store-sales. ICI recently reorganized its elastomeric coatings business under one brand, called Decra-Flex, Salvadore says. "We had a disjointed program, and what we've done is brought everything together," he says (Bryner, 2005, p. 38)."

Tags:elastomers, damper, engineering