Controllable composite structure or structural elements enclose magnetotheological fluids as a structural component between opposing containment layers to form at least a portion of any variety of extended mechanical systems, such as plates, panels, beams and bars or structures including these elements. The control of the stiffness and damping properties of the structure or structural elements is accomplished by changing the shear and compression/tension moduli of the magnetorheological fluid by varying the applied magnetic field. The composite structures of the present invention may be incorporated into a wide variety of mechanical systems for control of vibration and other properties.
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