Low-Carbon geotechnical approach to seismic resilience of structures

The geotechnical approach to seismic resilience represents a paradigm shift in earthquake-resistant design and retrofit of structures. Unlike traditional methods, it does not require modifications to structural systems or architectural features. By facilitating dynamic soil-foundation-structure interaction, this approach harnesses its beneficial effects in a controlled manner. Modifying foundation soils by using low-carbon geosynthetic materials can lengthen the natural period of the system and dissipate seismic energy without causing undesirable permanent ground deformations. This method effectively dissipates seismic energy before it reaches the structure, making it a robust solution for achieving low-damage performance in resilience-based seismic design. This research will utilise Scotland’s only geotechnical centrifuge laboratory at the University of Dundee, and one of only two in the UK with an earthquake simulator. 

Reference: Geotechnical Seismic Isolation

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