In the high-altitude, seismic hotspot of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, China, construction faces unique challenges. Traditional buildings struggle to withstand the frequent, intense earthquakes, and prefabricated modular pressurized buildings, while offering quick construction, have shown insufficient seismic performance. Enter Zhiwu Ye, a researcher from China Construction Third Engineering Bureau Yunju Technology CO., Ltd., and China Construction Advanced Technology Research Institute, both in Wuhan, China, who has proposed an innovative solution to this pressing issue.
Ye’s research, recently published in ‘Resilient Cities and Structures’ (translated from Chinese), focuses on integrating small friction pendulum bearings (FPBs) into the design of modular pressurized buildings. These bearings act as a seismic isolation system, reducing the impact of earthquakes on the structure. “The size of FPBs for modular pressurized buildings should consider both displacement and dimension requirements to weigh seismic isolation performance and installation feasibility, respectively,” Ye explains. This balancing act is crucial for the practical application of FPBs in real-world construction.
The study began with the development of a simplified model for the cross-truss support of pressurized modules. This model was then validated against a more detailed finite element model, ensuring its accuracy and reliability. Using this simplified model, Ye designed a small FPB isolation system for a two-story modular pressurized building, capable of withstanding an 8-degree fortification earthquake. The effectiveness of this design was then tested using dynamic time-history analysis, comparing it to a non-isolated structure. The results were striking: the FPB-isolated structure showed a significantly reduced response to seismic activity, demonstrating the clear benefits of this isolation system.
The implications of this research for the energy sector are substantial. Modular pressurized buildings are often used in remote or harsh environments, such as those found in the energy sector. These buildings are used for housing, offices, and even processing facilities. By improving their seismic resilience, this research could lead to safer, more reliable infrastructure in high-risk areas. This could, in turn, reduce downtime and maintenance costs, and improve the overall efficiency of energy operations.
Moreover, the use of FPBs in modular buildings could revolutionize post-earthquake recovery. As Ye notes, “The proposed construction process can improve the seismic resilience of the prefabricated modular pressurized buildings by replacing post-earthquake damaged components quickly.” This means that in the event of an earthquake, damaged components can be swiftly replaced, minimizing disruption and accelerating recovery.
Looking ahead, this research could shape future developments in seismic-resistant construction. As the demand for resilient infrastructure grows, so too will the need for innovative solutions like Ye’s FPB isolation system. This could lead to a new generation of buildings that are not only quick to construct but also better equipped to withstand the forces of nature.
