Earthquake Proof Structures

Scientists are testing structures in labs that not only will remain standing after an earthquake but also will just require minor repairs so the building can be kept in use. Engineers today are not satisfied with buildings that don't collapse- instead they want these buildings to be kept in use. This has been an ardous challenge for engineers to accomplish.

Engineers have developed various techniques. One of these techniques involves using machinery which is computerized. This machinery adjusts the building's structure hundreds of time a second to stop the effects of ground vibrations. This idea shows promise, but has had flaws. This is a discovery scientists and engineers have been waiting for.

There are also a variety of options to make buildings more resistant to earthquakes. Engineers use materials such as steel framing, steel reinforced concrete, and properly based and anchored wood. The properly based and anchored wood is mostly used for homes though. However, like some of the other techniques, these methods also haven't been perfect. In order to have these tactics work, they must be used correctly.

Scientists, as well as engineers, are not limited to these ideas. One of the other techniques used has to with foundations. These foundations are mounted on shock absorbing "base isolaters" made up of alternating layers of rubber and steel plate or springs. This concept has been around for over 15 years but has only caught on in the last five. The principle is to add energy to buildings to counteract on an earthquake's forces.

This whole idea of making a building "quake-proof" is very costly. The Federal Emergency Management Agency plans to spend over $40 million in the next ten years. This money will help scientists to do more testing and to develop better methods.

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