How to make your house or building earthquake proof?
earthquake in Delhi-NCR and Nepal, concerns about earthquake safety in buildings across India have been reignited. This natural disaster has prompted discussions on how to make buildings more resilient to seismic activity. Here are some of the top earthquake-proofing technologies in the world that can help safeguard structures:
1. Base Isolation System
What is it? The base isolation system involves separating the actual structure of a building from its foundation.
It incorporates rubber bearings and a sliding seismic isolator. During an earthquake, the foundation moves independently of the building, reducing the intensity of the shaking and preserving the structure's integrity.
What kinds of buildings use it? Base isolation systems are typically employed in buildings that provide critical services, such as hospitals and telecommunication facilities. These structures are usually of lower height and benefit from the added stability provided by this technology.
2. Dampers: What is it? Dampers serve as large shock absorbers, akin to those found in automobiles.
They play a crucial role in dissipating the energy generated during an earthquake, thereby safeguarding the larger structure above.
What kinds of buildings use it? High-rise buildings often utilize various types of dampers to enhance their earthquake resistance. Additionally, dampers can be retrofitted into older buildings that were not originally designed to withstand seismic forces.
3. Levitation
What is it? The levitation technique involves elevating a house off the ground when an earthquake occurs.
