Building Resilience: Innovative Solutions for Earthquake-Prone Regions in Developing Countries
Earthquake: The number of people who die in an earthquake depends on how well the country is developing. More generally, low quality buildings and inadequate town planning are the two main reasons why seismic events are more destructive in developing countries. In response to this issue, my colleagues and I are working on a way to create cheap building foundations that are better at absorbing seismic energy and so can prevent structures from collapsing during an earthquake. Previous attempts to protect buildings from earthquakes by altering their foundations have shown promising results.
This rubber soil mixture can reduce the effects of seismic vibrations on the buildings above. Some studies have shown that the introduction of rubber particles into the soil may increase energy dissipation. Earthquakes deform rubber and absorb vibrational energy. My colleague and I have shown that the introduction of rubber debris can also change the natural frequency of the soil foundation and the interaction with the structures above it.
Earthquake:
This helps avoid the well-known resonance phenomenon that occurs when seismic forces have frequencies similar to the natural vibrations of buildings. The introduction of the rubber mixture can even out the vibrations so that this does not happen. Our preliminary calculations reflect other studies suggesting that a layer of rubber flooring compound with a thickness of 1-5 meters under the building reduces the maximum horizontal force of an earthquake by 50-70%. Currently, we are investigating how various shaped foundations made of a mixture of rubber and soil make the system more efficient and the effects of different types of earthquakes.
There is a way to build life-size model buildings and test them through large-scale experiments, including shaking them to simulate the actual seismic force recorded.
Reference:
Bernal-Sánchez, J. (2018). Indonesia earthquake: how scrap tyres could stop buildings collapsing. [online] The Conversation. Available at: https://theconversation.com/indonesia-earthquake-how-scrap-tyres-could-stop-buildings-collapsing-101499.
FAQ
1. What is an earthquake?
An earthquake is a sudden shaking of the ground caused by the movement of tectonic plates beneath the Earth’s surface. This movement releases energy that creates seismic waves, leading to the ground shaking that can result in damage.
2. How do earthquakes affect buildings in developing countries?
In developing countries, the lack of quality building materials and poor town planning often exacerbates the effects of an earthquake. These factors can lead to more structural failures and higher casualties during an earthquake.
3. What innovative solutions exist to improve earthquake resilience?
Innovative solutions, such as using rubber-soil mixtures in foundations, aim to absorb seismic energy and prevent buildings from collapsing during an earthquake. These methods focus on enhancing building resilience in earthquake-prone regions.
4. How can scrap tyres help prevent building collapse during an earthquake?
Scrap tyres can be incorporated into building foundations to create a rubber-soil mixture. This mixture has been shown to absorb vibrational energy, which reduces the impact of seismic forces during an earthquake.
5. What is the role of foundation design in earthquake safety?
Foundation design plays a crucial role in earthquake safety. A well-designed foundation can help buildings withstand seismic forces, reducing the likelihood of collapse during an earthquake.
6. How do rubber particles affect soil behavior during an earthquake?
Rubber particles can alter the natural frequency of the soil, making it more resistant to the effects of an earthquake. This change can minimise resonance, which occurs when seismic forces match the building’s natural vibrations.
7. What are the potential benefits of using rubber in earthquake-resistant foundations?
Using rubber in foundations can lead to a significant reduction in horizontal forces during an earthquake, with studies indicating a decrease of 50-70%. This innovative approach enhances overall structural stability.
8. How can large-scale experiments improve our understanding of earthquake impacts?
Conducting large-scale experiments, such as shaking model buildings, helps researchers understand how different designs and materials perform during an earthquake. These insights are vital for developing effective engineering solutions.
9. Why is town planning important in earthquake-prone areas?
Effective town planning is crucial in earthquake-prone areas to ensure that buildings are constructed with appropriate safety measures. Proper planning can reduce vulnerability and minimise damage during an earthquake.
10. What advancements have been made in earthquake engineering?
Advancements in earthquake engineering include innovative foundation designs that incorporate materials like rubber to enhance energy dissipation. These developments aim to protect structures from the devastating effects of an earthquake.
11. How do different types of earthquakes impact building design?
Different types of earthquakes, such as shallow or deep-focus quakes, can exert varying forces on structures. Understanding these differences is essential for designing buildings that can withstand specific seismic events.
12. What can communities do to prepare for potential earthquakes?
Communities can prepare for potential earthquakes by investing in building upgrades, conducting emergency drills, and implementing effective town planning strategies. Awareness and preparedness are key to reducing risks associated with earthquakes.
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