A Representation Theorem for Fractional Viscoelastic Networks

Abstract

We prove a representation theorem for finite series-parallel viscoelastic networks composed of springs and spring-pots of a common order $0<α<1$. The associated complex shear modulus, expressed in an appropriately chosen auxiliary variable, is rational and admits a finite partial-fraction representation with simple poles on the negative real axis and negative residues. Its reciprocal admits an analogous representation with positive residues and a possible additional pole at the origin. Inverting the corresponding Laplace transforms gives finite fractional Prony representations of the relaxation modulus and creep compliance with non-negative amplitudes. These results provide a rigorous proof of a corrected version of the Mainardi-Spada conjecture for this network class. A six-element network illustrates the construction.