Research Output
Geotechnical seismic isolation technology with rubber- soil trenches for earthquake resilience of existing structures
  This study investigates the feasibility of using Rubber-Soil mixtures (RSm) trenches as a Geotechnical Seismic Isolation (GSI) technology to mitigate earthquake-induced ground motions and enhance the resilience of existing structures. While previous research has demonstrated the effectiveness of RSm in laboratory-scale tests, full-scale validation remains limited. To address this gap, this research integrates numerical modelling and experimental testing to assess the seismic isolation performance of RSm trenches. Preliminary finite element simulations suggest that 3 m-deep RSm trenches can effectively attenuate vibrations across both low (<6Hz) and high (>10Hz) frequencies. A full-scale field experiment will be conducted at the EUROPROTEAS facility, where a reinforced concrete frame will be monitored under controlled dynamic loading , applied behind the trench using a ground shaker. The findings from this study will provide essential insights into the long-term viability of RSm-based GSI systems and contribute to the development of sustainable retrofitting solutions for earthquake-prone regions.

  • Date:

    06 April 2025

  • Publication Status:

    Accepted

  • Funders:

    European Commission

Citation

Bernal-Sanchez, J., McDougall, J., Barreto, D., Dimitriadi, V., Tsang, H., Pitilakis, D., Anastasiadis, A., & Leak, J. (2025, May). Geotechnical seismic isolation technology with rubber- soil trenches for earthquake resilience of existing structures. Presented at 2025 International Workshop in Engineering Research Infrastructures for European Synergies (ERIES-IW2025), Lisbon, Portugal

Authors

Keywords

Geotechnical Seismic Isolation (GSI); Rubber-Soil mixtures (RSm); vibration isolation trenches; full-scale seismic testing; finite element modelling; waste materials

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