This paper examines the stability implications of integrating piezoelectric actuators into metamaterial beams, focusing on the compensation of structural damping and its effect on the system's dynamic performance. Metamaterials, characterized by their unique bandgap properties, offer potential in various engineering applications, including vibration control and energy harvesting. However, structural damping inherent in such systems can degrade these properties, prompting the use of piezoelectric actuators as a compensatory mechanism. Through a distributed parameter model and modal analysis, this study explores the temporal and spatial dynamics of the metamaterial beam and investigates how piezoelectric actuation influences the natural frequencies and mode shapes, with a particular emphasis on stability thresholds. Employing root locus analysis, the paper visualizes the transition of system stability across different levels of actuation voltage, highlighting the delicate balance between enhanced performance and stability. The findings delineate a clear operational voltage range, within which piezoelectric actuation improves bandgap properties without compromising system stability.

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The decade that we have embarked upon presents enormous challenges for Europe. The 2020 strategy for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth recognises the key role higher education must play if the ambitions for Europe in a fast-changing global reality are to be realised. This implies widening access to lifelong learning to as many European citizens as possible and it is vital that measures are implemented to transform our reality towards this direction. Notably, labour markets increasingly require more graduates with specialized knowledge and competences and substantial investment has to be made in education systems to ensure that this demand is met. The COMPASS project aims to the Composition of Lifelong Learning Opportunity Pathways through Standards-based Services investing on the establishment of a cohesive, strategic partnership for the longterm promotion of LLL-related European strategies and the development of instruments that will raise the awareness of both learning opportunity providers and learning opportunity seekers and stimulate the design of policies for enhancing ET with alternative, flexible pathways on the basis of easy, technology-enhanced access to learning opportunities.@en