This paper deals with the mechanical characterization of brain tissue
which behaves as a viscoelastic material. We focus on the linear visco
elastic behavior, which should apply for small strains at any strain r
ate, and demonstrate the applicability of the time/temperature superpo
sition principle, This principle allows the opportunity to extend the
range of shear rates for which the material is characterized, and make
s the results applicable to impact conditions. This characterization o
f the linear behavior forms the basis for a further nonlinear characte
rization of the tissue. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Ltd.