Materials That Absorb Energy: Insulators, Absorbers, and Dampers

Types of Energy-Absorbing Materials

• Insulators: Poor conductors of heat/electricity; keep heat/cold from escaping. Examples: fiberglass, cellulose, polystyrene foam.
• Absorbers: Absorb sound or light waves to reduce noise or glare. Examples: acoustic panels, curtains, vegetation.
• Dampers: Absorb shock or vibration to protect equipment or reduce noise. Examples: shock absorbers, springs, vibration isolators.