Diseño de un Metamaterial híbrido para aplicaciones en solárium de yates en las Islas Galápagos

Abstract

CONDITION FOR PROJECT PUBLICATION. This study addresses the design and evaluation of a hybrid metamaterial panel as a structural alternative to conventional GFRP prefabricated decks used in yacht solarium areas in the Galápagos Islands. The project aims to develop a panel with improved mechanical behavior, capable of dissipating energy in a more progressive manner and controlling the transmission of localized loads. The hypothesis states that the incorporation of a viscoelastic core and metallic reinforcements modify the structural response of the panel favorably. The justification of the research is based on the need to improve comfort, safety, and structural efficiency of walkable surfaces operating in marine environments. The project development included the geometric design of the hybrid panel, the fabrication of specimens incorporating a TPU core and steel filaments, and the manufacture of GFRP specimens using conventional shipyard construction processes. Flexural tests were performed using a universal testing machine, and simplified mechanical models were applied to analyze the force–displacement relationship. The results showed that hybrid panels exhibit a more progressive response, with higher deformation capacity and energy dissipation levels comparable to those of GFRP panels, despite operating at lower surface stiffness levels. In conclusion, the proposed hybrid panel represents a viable alternative for solarium decks, particularly in applications where controlled energy absorption and damage localization are critical. Keywords: Viscoelastic core (TPU), hybrid sandwich panel, energy dissipation, structural response.