Abstract

Seismic isolation has been recognised to be a very effective way of protecting structures from damage during earthquakes. It allows us to extend the natural period of the structure and therefore avoid resonance with the ground motion. Moreover, by increasing damping in the isolation devices, more energy can be dissipated and thus the structural response can be further reduced. The aim of this paper is to show the results of the study focused on verification of the applicability of the innovative method of seismic isolation by installing bearings made of a polymer mass, which is an especially designed flexible elastoplastic two-component grout based on polyurethane resin. In the study, a model structure was tested experimentally on a shaking table under earthquake excitation. First, the structure was fixed directly to the table and its response was recorded. Then, the response of the structure with polymer bearings installed at its base was observed and both responses were compared. The results of the study show that equipping the structure with the polymer bearings can considerably reduce the structural response under earthquake excitation. The innovative method considered in the study has been verified to be an effective seismic isolation technique.

Citations

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