Iran Construction Engineers
Civil Engineering Team
A leader in the design and implementation of the latest and the most innovative engineering methods

Seismic Isolation


From the beginning of the world, earthquakes have occurred and will continue happening in the future. The most dramatic and memorable images of earthquake damages are indeed those of structural collapse. There are two fundamental approaches to mitigate earthquake damages on structures. The first approach is fortifying the structural lateral resistance system in order to tolerate exerted earth motion forces. These systems include moment resistance frames, shear walls and braces. Diminishing earthquake forces before entering into the structure states as the second approach.


The first approach which is known by name of conventional method is well-known, constructor-accepted and it has been widely used within the engineering practice. However, this method increases dead load of structure which can be undesirably costly. The second approach is less practiced in the literature and needs to be more explored.


The main goal of partake quake-attenuating in buildings is to absorb energy and to attenuate the exerted forces into structures as a result of ground motions. Quake-attenuating systems are divided into two main categories of Dampers and Isolators. Quake-attenuating systems restrain transmission of forces into the structure; therefore, they make considerable subsidence in story acceleration and story drifts that overall result is visible in designing forces carried by each elements.


Notwithstanding achievements and developments in the field of quake-attenuating systems, applying them in the structures is proportional to following complicated technology and subtle engineering. Furthermore, installation and initiation of this systems depend on educated and expert crews and such attenuating systems need maintenance and repair during the useful structural life time. The aforementioned reasons lead to limitation and high-cost of utilizing such system especially in developing countries. Consequently, nowadays civil engineering suffers from the lack of such quake-attenuating systems to be able to respond simply but applicable mechanism at the same time for almost all types of structure.


Earthquake Resistance System


Nowadays civil engineering suffers from the lack of such quake-attenuating systems to be able to respond simply but applicable mechanism at the same time for almost all types of structure. Inspired by Patent No.: US 6,862,848B1, year 2008 Tsang published an article and introduced new system of isolation (Tsang 2008). This system is formed from rubber and soil mixture located in the base ground under structure foundation. Tsang showed the ability of mitigation of earthquake energy and isolation wave transition of this system for a ten story building. Afterward Kaneko conducted pseudo-dynamic response test and concluded that this system is effective for both seismic isolation and to prevent liquefaction and Xiong proposed that seismic isolation per-formance of rubber soil mixture is inferior to that of a foundation underlain by pure-sand, carried out by shak-ing table tests with a 1/3 scale rubbersoil mixtures model. All these evaluations prove the isolation ability of rubber-soil mixture as an isolator system. Therefore, researches over this new idea has begun and researches such as Senetakis et al. has started to find the behavioral parameters of rubber-soil mixture

Ground Isolation by Geo-Isolator

Seismic waves propagate through interior of the earth from earthquake focus to ground surface. The final portion of this traveling is often through the soil that can greatly influence the nature of shaking on the surface. Herein, a new isolation system is introduced to mitigate seismic waves before entering into the structure by changing the soil nature of underlying ground aggregates, named as geo-isolator (Sarraf et al 2024).

The Geo Isolator is placed between the structure and the sub soil to separate the structure from the bed soil. Consequently, separation of the whole structures and foundation on the entire contact surface from sub soil leads to change the nature of single point isolation into the extended continuous surface of 3D isolation over entire foundation-soil surface. In fact, the Geo Isolator effects whole incoming seismic waves by utilizing 3D effect of wave mitigation, damping, refraction and reflection for both vertical and horizontal seismic waves of all kinds of surface or body waves due to system mechanism that designed for all seismic arrival waves through the body of the bed soil.
Eartquake Mechanism

Building Rupture in Earthquakes

Turkey earthquake
Earthquake Japan Kobe 1995
Earthquake Hyatt Terraces Baguio 1990
Earthquake China Sichuan 2008
The Importance of Structural Design in Earthquake-Resistant Buildings

Structural design is a critical aspect of constructing buildings that can withstand the forces generated by earthquakes. Given the dynamic and unpredictable nature of seismic events, the importance of robust structural design cannot be overstated. Here are several key reasons why structural design is essential in earthquake-prone areas:

1. Life Safety
The primary goal of seismic-resistant design is to protect human lives. By ensuring that buildings can withstand seismic forces, structural engineers help prevent collapses and reduce the risk of injury or death during an earthquake1. This involves designing structures that can absorb and dissipate the energy released during seismic events, thereby maintaining their integrity and stability1.

2. Minimizing Damage
Effective structural design aims to minimize damage to buildings during an earthquake. This includes both structural and non-structural elements. By incorporating features such as shear walls, cross braces, and moment-resisting frames, engineers can enhance a building’s ability to resist lateral forces and reduce the extent of damage2. This not only protects the building itself but also the contents and occupants within.

3. Economic Considerations
The economic impact of earthquakes can be devastating. Well-designed structures can significantly reduce repair and reconstruction costs following a seismic event. Investing in proper structural design upfront can save substantial amounts of money in the long run by avoiding extensive damage and the associated costs of rebuilding3. Additionally, buildings that are designed to be earthquake-resistant are often more attractive to investors and insurers, potentially lowering insurance premiums.

4. Regulatory Compliance
Many regions with high seismic activity have stringent building codes and regulations that mandate earthquake-resistant design. Compliance with these codes is not only a legal requirement but also a critical aspect of ensuring public safety. Structural engineers must stay updated with the latest codes and standards to design buildings that meet or exceed these requirements4.

5. Sustainability and Resilience
Sustainable design is increasingly important in modern construction. Earthquake-resistant buildings contribute to sustainability by reducing the need for frequent repairs and reconstruction, which in turn lowers the environmental impact of construction activities. Moreover, resilient buildings ensure that communities can recover more quickly after an earthquake, maintaining social and economic stability5.

6. Innovative Technologies
Advancements in materials and construction technologies have significantly improved the effectiveness of seismic-resistant designs. Innovations such as base isolation, energy dissipation devices, and advanced damping systems allow buildings to better absorb and redirect seismic energy2. These technologies are integral to modern structural design and play a crucial role in enhancing the earthquake resilience of buildings.

Consequently, structural design is a fundamental component of constructing earthquake-resistant buildings. By prioritizing life safety, minimizing damage, considering economic impacts, ensuring regulatory compliance, promoting sustainability, and leveraging innovative technologies, structural engineers play a vital role in mitigating the risks associated with earthquakes. Investing in robust structural design is essential for protecting lives, reducing economic losses, and enhancing the resilience of communities in earthquake-prone areas.
Structural Design Value

Structural design plays a pivotal role in the overall cost of construction projects. It involves the detailed planning and analysis of the framework that supports a building or infrastructure, ensuring it can withstand various loads and stresses throughout its lifespan. Here are several key reasons why structural design is crucial in determining the final construction costs:

1. Material Optimization
A well-thought-out structural design can significantly optimize the use of materials. By selecting the appropriate materials and designing efficient structural systems, engineers can reduce waste and lower material costs. For instance, using high-strength materials in critical areas can reduce the amount of material needed, leading to cost savings1.

2. Labor Efficiency
Efficient structural design can simplify construction processes, making them quicker and less labor-intensive. Simplified designs often require fewer man-hours to construct, which directly translates to lower labor costs. For example, prefabricated components designed for easy assembly can speed up construction timelines and reduce labor expenses1.

3. Minimizing Rework and Delays
Accurate structural design minimizes the likelihood of errors during construction. Errors can lead to costly rework and project delays, both of which inflate the final cost. By ensuring that the design is precise and feasible, structural engineers help keep the project on schedule and within budget2.

4. Safety and Compliance
Structural design ensures that the building meets all safety standards and regulatory requirements. Non-compliance can result in fines, legal issues, and additional costs to rectify the problems. A robust design that adheres to all codes and standards prevents these potential financial setbacks3.

5. Long-term Durability and Maintenance
A well-designed structure is more durable and requires less maintenance over its lifespan. This long-term perspective on cost savings is crucial, as initial savings on construction can be offset by high maintenance costs if the structure is not designed properly. Durable designs reduce the need for frequent repairs and associated costs2.

6. Energy Efficiency
Structural design also impacts the energy efficiency of a building. Efficient designs can incorporate features that reduce energy consumption, such as proper insulation and natural lighting. These features not only lower operational costs but can also qualify for green building certifications, which can be financially beneficial3.

Consequently, structural design is a fundamental aspect of construction that significantly influences the final cost. By optimizing materials, improving labor efficiency, minimizing errors, ensuring compliance, enhancing durability, and promoting energy efficiency, structural design helps manage and reduce overall construction costs. Investing in a comprehensive and thoughtful structural design is essential for the financial success of any construction project.



Geo-Isolator

Patented
Geo-Isolator

The present invention is introduced as a new Seismic Isolator System with the aim of reducing forces of earthquake on structures and eliminating limitations of conventional seismic attenuating systems. This isolation system, without use of sophisticated and costly equipment that depend on educated and expert crews for installation and initiation, changes the upper soil layer of a site with new materials to completely separate the structure from underground soil. This idea is proposed inspired by the natural phenomena that the final portion of seismic waves traveling is often through the soil and characteristics of the soil can greatly influence nature of shaking at the ground surface. Therefore, by changing soil nature via materials with known specifications, 3D effect of deviation, refraction and reflection for both vertical and horizontal seismic waves before entering into structure is appeared. This isolation system that benefits whole structure with no need of maintenance and repairing is named “Geo Isolator”.

The results show the average reduction ability of 30~35% for geo-isolator while this magnitude is comparable to conventional methods such as base-isolation system.

Geo-Isolator Advantages


Geo-isolator is a new isolation system, which is located in the ground under the foundation. This system mit-igates earthquake peak acceleration such that for the worst case of ground 0.7g excitation, isolated structure experiences 0.35g peak acceleration. Results of this research are offered in the form of design spectra, by evaluating seven scaled excitations soil response analyses. The important outcomes of this research are as follow:


  • Based on frequency content, duration, peak values, number of high magnitude vibration and codes sug-gestion from FEMA-P695 and FEMa-440a, seven earthquake records are chosen and applied to a nonlinear plastic behavior model. Responses are in the form of response spectra that are changed into design curves for two types of pure ground soil and isolated soil.
  • Geo-isolator shows the average reduction of 30~35% for seismic waves effect, while this value is remark-able compared to the base-isolator system. This reduction is due to the number of vibration exceed the minimum level of 0.2g acceleration; in fact, this system limits the maximum value of acceleration that ground surface can experience.
  • Geo-isolator shows considerable reduction in low period range and equal values for high period domain. However, imposing weigh of real structure for high period range is forecasted to show notable reduction for those ranges too.
  • Geo-isolator system has the ability of being utilized for any superstructure with different shape, usage, and dimension. In fact, geo-isolator is located outside of the structure that makes a series of function between the isolator and superstructure response.
  • The great advantage of this new isolation system is the lack of requirement for making any changes into superstructure design procedure. Actually, since geo-isolator system changes the nature of ground motion, this system can be designed separately and the structure is designed via isolated design curve.
  • Codes obtain minimum design criteria which maintain a level of non-destructive protection for building. Geo-isolator system not only maintain this feature, but it is able to guarantee performances of important building after earthquake excitation because of its reduction level.
  • Although foundation has specific dimension, results can be expanded to conventional structures because of equal surface foundation node movement which is tied to the superstructure node.
Geo-Isolator
1. Structure
2. Bed soil
3. Foundation
4. Geo Isolator system
4.1 Main section
4.1.e Main section element schematic property
Surrounding Section:
4.2 Vertical surrounding section
4.3 Horizontal surrounding section
4.3.a Upper horizontal surrounding section
4.3.a.e Upper horizontal surrounding section element schematic property
4.3.b Lower horizontal surrounding section
Geo Isolator
For furthure information please click here
Composit backfill Isolator (CBI)

A new method called Composit backfill Isolator (CBI) has been introduced and designed to address dynamic waves. In this method, different modeling is used to determine the optimal design, thickness, and appropriate levels for the outer wall of the tunnel. The goal is for this wall to act as a protective cover, significantly reducing the interaction between the tunnel structure and the surrounding ground during an earthquake. By using the isolator to manage the incoming stress wave from the surrounding environment, the force distribution remains intact, and transverse deformation and bending forces are minimized. This protective layer functions by reducing the intensity of passing waves, thereby lowering the energy level experienced by the structure. For furthure information please refere to CBI page.
Geo-Isolator Material

Base-isolators is made from two parts of resistant section (lead) and mitigating section (rubber). Geo-isolator system categorizes in the same manner; however, allowable range of material stresses decrease from steel power to soil power by transferring isolator system from column-foundation junction to underground position. This changing over range of stresses help to consider more types of material as isolator aggregates. Appropriate choice for resistant section of geo-isolator is the same soil which not only accessible but also economical. For mitigating section, materials with high damping features, considerable hysteretic curve, low stiffness and rea-sonable ultimate stress is intended. Thus, although material used by past researchers was rubber, other materials with those four specific features have to find this chance to be considered.
RSM Material

Such material may be named as elastomers, soft polymers, oil derivatives and etc. In spite of this consideration, this research, similar to past researches, utilizes the mixture of rubber and soil as geo-isolator material. In geotechnical engineering, the mix of shredded tires and sand is known as rubber-sand mixture or RSM. ASTM D6270 − 08 (Reapproved 2012) standard approve applicability of this material and determines some rules for the manner of being used in civil engineering project such as lightweight retaining wall backfill, drainage layers for roads, thermal insu-lation to limit frost penetration, vibration damping layers for rail lines, lightweight embankment and replace-ment for soil or rock in other field applications. One of the important rule which is relevant to this project states that RSM layer cannot be buried more than of 3 m depth.
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ICE
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We design a building from base to top according to highest standard and innovative methods
The ICE
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PSS
Prefabricated steel structures (PSS) are similar in construction to conventional in-situ structures, but the parts are manufactured modularly under regulated conditions.
Ocean Engineering
In partnership with Sharif University of Technology, we have been working for many years in designing and constructing marine structures with different applications in Iran.
ICE Group
We are a group of engineers who have been working for many years in designing and constructing buildings with different applications in Iran.
Structural Engineering and Construction
ICE design and implement of the latest and the most innovative engineering
Marine Structures
We provide the offshore and maritime industries with innovative platform design and construction, and engineering services.
Export
Based on the experiences we have gained, we decided to extend our field of activity to other countries and export designed and constructed structures that can be prefabricated.

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CONNECT WITH US

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GENERAL
Copyright © 2024 ICE. All rights reserved.
Iran Construction Engineers

Civil Engineering Team
A leader in the design and implementation of the latest and the most innovative engineering methods

Iran Construction Engineers

Civil Engineering Team
A leader in the design and implementation of the latest and the most innovative engineering methods

Seismic Isolation


From the beginning of the world, earthquakes have occurred and will continue happening in the future. The most dramatic and memorable images of earthquake damages are indeed those of structural collapse. There are two fundamental approaches to mitigate earthquake damages on structures. The first approach is fortifying the structural lateral resistance system in order to tolerate exerted earth motion forces. These systems include moment resistance frames, shear walls and braces. Diminishing earthquake forces before entering into the structure states as the second approach.


The first approach which is known by name of conventional method is well-known, constructor-accepted and it has been widely used within the engineering practice. However, this method increases dead load of structure which can be undesirably costly. The second approach is less practiced in the literature and needs to be more explored.


The main goal of partake quake-attenuating in buildings is to absorb energy and to attenuate the exerted forces into structures as a result of ground motions. Quake-attenuating systems are divided into two main categories of Dampers and Isolators. Quake-attenuating systems restrain transmission of forces into the structure; therefore, they make considerable subsidence in story acceleration and story drifts that overall result is visible in designing forces carried by each elements.


Notwithstanding achievements and developments in the field of quake-attenuating systems, applying them in the structures is proportional to following complicated technology and subtle engineering. Furthermore, installation and initiation of this systems depend on educated and expert crews and such attenuating systems need maintenance and repair during the useful structural life time. The aforementioned reasons lead to limitation and high-cost of utilizing such system especially in developing countries. Consequently, nowadays civil engineering suffers from the lack of such quake-attenuating systems to be able to respond simply but applicable mechanism at the same time for almost all types of structure.


Earthquake Resistance System


Nowadays civil engineering suffers from the lack of such quake-attenuating systems to be able to respond simply but applicable mechanism at the same time for almost all types of structure. Inspired by Patent No.: US 6,862,848B1, year 2008 Tsang published an article and introduced new system of isolation (Tsang 2008). This system is formed from rubber and soil mixture located in the base ground under structure foundation. Tsang showed the ability of mitigation of earthquake energy and isolation wave transition of this system for a ten story building. Afterward Kaneko conducted pseudo-dynamic response test and concluded that this system is effective for both seismic isolation and to prevent liquefaction and Xiong proposed that seismic isolation per-formance of rubber soil mixture is inferior to that of a foundation underlain by pure-sand, carried out by shak-ing table tests with a 1/3 scale rubbersoil mixtures model. All these evaluations prove the isolation ability of rubber-soil mixture as an isolator system. Therefore, researches over this new idea has begun and researches such as Senetakis et al. has started to find the behavioral parameters of rubber-soil mixture

Ground Isolation by Geo-Isolator

Seismic waves propagate through interior of the earth from earthquake focus to ground surface. The final portion of this traveling is often through the soil that can greatly influence the nature of shaking on the surface. Herein, a new isolation system is introduced to mitigate seismic waves before entering into the structure by changing the soil nature of underlying ground aggregates, named as geo-isolator (Sarraf et al 2024).

The Geo Isolator is placed between the structure and the sub soil to separate the structure from the bed soil. Consequently, separation of the whole structures and foundation on the entire contact surface from sub soil leads to change the nature of single point isolation into the extended continuous surface of 3D isolation over entire foundation-soil surface. In fact, the Geo Isolator effects whole incoming seismic waves by utilizing 3D effect of wave mitigation, damping, refraction and reflection for both vertical and horizontal seismic waves of all kinds of surface or body waves due to system mechanism that designed for all seismic arrival waves through the body of the bed soil.
Eartquake Mechanism

Building Rupture in Earthquakes

Turkey earthquake
Earthquake Japan Kobe 1995
Earthquake Hyatt Terraces Baguio 1990
Earthquake China Sichuan 2008
The Importance of Structural Design in Earthquake-Resistant Buildings

Structural design is a critical aspect of constructing buildings that can withstand the forces generated by earthquakes. Given the dynamic and unpredictable nature of seismic events, the importance of robust structural design cannot be overstated. Here are several key reasons why structural design is essential in earthquake-prone areas:

1. Life Safety
The primary goal of seismic-resistant design is to protect human lives. By ensuring that buildings can withstand seismic forces, structural engineers help prevent collapses and reduce the risk of injury or death during an earthquake1. This involves designing structures that can absorb and dissipate the energy released during seismic events, thereby maintaining their integrity and stability1.

2. Minimizing Damage
Effective structural design aims to minimize damage to buildings during an earthquake. This includes both structural and non-structural elements. By incorporating features such as shear walls, cross braces, and moment-resisting frames, engineers can enhance a building’s ability to resist lateral forces and reduce the extent of damage2. This not only protects the building itself but also the contents and occupants within.

3. Economic Considerations
The economic impact of earthquakes can be devastating. Well-designed structures can significantly reduce repair and reconstruction costs following a seismic event. Investing in proper structural design upfront can save substantial amounts of money in the long run by avoiding extensive damage and the associated costs of rebuilding3. Additionally, buildings that are designed to be earthquake-resistant are often more attractive to investors and insurers, potentially lowering insurance premiums.

4. Regulatory Compliance
Many regions with high seismic activity have stringent building codes and regulations that mandate earthquake-resistant design. Compliance with these codes is not only a legal requirement but also a critical aspect of ensuring public safety. Structural engineers must stay updated with the latest codes and standards to design buildings that meet or exceed these requirements4.

5. Sustainability and Resilience
Sustainable design is increasingly important in modern construction. Earthquake-resistant buildings contribute to sustainability by reducing the need for frequent repairs and reconstruction, which in turn lowers the environmental impact of construction activities. Moreover, resilient buildings ensure that communities can recover more quickly after an earthquake, maintaining social and economic stability5.

6. Innovative Technologies
Advancements in materials and construction technologies have significantly improved the effectiveness of seismic-resistant designs. Innovations such as base isolation, energy dissipation devices, and advanced damping systems allow buildings to better absorb and redirect seismic energy2. These technologies are integral to modern structural design and play a crucial role in enhancing the earthquake resilience of buildings.

Consequently, structural design is a fundamental component of constructing earthquake-resistant buildings. By prioritizing life safety, minimizing damage, considering economic impacts, ensuring regulatory compliance, promoting sustainability, and leveraging innovative technologies, structural engineers play a vital role in mitigating the risks associated with earthquakes. Investing in robust structural design is essential for protecting lives, reducing economic losses, and enhancing the resilience of communities in earthquake-prone areas.
Structural Design Value

Structural design plays a pivotal role in the overall cost of construction projects. It involves the detailed planning and analysis of the framework that supports a building or infrastructure, ensuring it can withstand various loads and stresses throughout its lifespan. Here are several key reasons why structural design is crucial in determining the final construction costs:

1. Material Optimization
A well-thought-out structural design can significantly optimize the use of materials. By selecting the appropriate materials and designing efficient structural systems, engineers can reduce waste and lower material costs. For instance, using high-strength materials in critical areas can reduce the amount of material needed, leading to cost savings1.

2. Labor Efficiency
Efficient structural design can simplify construction processes, making them quicker and less labor-intensive. Simplified designs often require fewer man-hours to construct, which directly translates to lower labor costs. For example, prefabricated components designed for easy assembly can speed up construction timelines and reduce labor expenses1.

3. Minimizing Rework and Delays
Accurate structural design minimizes the likelihood of errors during construction. Errors can lead to costly rework and project delays, both of which inflate the final cost. By ensuring that the design is precise and feasible, structural engineers help keep the project on schedule and within budget2.

4. Safety and Compliance
Structural design ensures that the building meets all safety standards and regulatory requirements. Non-compliance can result in fines, legal issues, and additional costs to rectify the problems. A robust design that adheres to all codes and standards prevents these potential financial setbacks3.

5. Long-term Durability and Maintenance
A well-designed structure is more durable and requires less maintenance over its lifespan. This long-term perspective on cost savings is crucial, as initial savings on construction can be offset by high maintenance costs if the structure is not designed properly. Durable designs reduce the need for frequent repairs and associated costs2.

6. Energy Efficiency
Structural design also impacts the energy efficiency of a building. Efficient designs can incorporate features that reduce energy consumption, such as proper insulation and natural lighting. These features not only lower operational costs but can also qualify for green building certifications, which can be financially beneficial3.

Consequently, structural design is a fundamental aspect of construction that significantly influences the final cost. By optimizing materials, improving labor efficiency, minimizing errors, ensuring compliance, enhancing durability, and promoting energy efficiency, structural design helps manage and reduce overall construction costs. Investing in a comprehensive and thoughtful structural design is essential for the financial success of any construction project.


Geo-Isolator

Patented
Geo-Isolator

The present invention is introduced as a new Seismic Isolator System with the aim of reducing forces of earthquake on structures and eliminating limitations of conventional seismic attenuating systems. This isolation system, without use of sophisticated and costly equipment that depend on educated and expert crews for installation and initiation, changes the upper soil layer of a site with new materials to completely separate the structure from underground soil. This idea is proposed inspired by the natural phenomena that the final portion of seismic waves traveling is often through the soil and characteristics of the soil can greatly influence nature of shaking at the ground surface. Therefore, by changing soil nature via materials with known specifications, 3D effect of deviation, refraction and reflection for both vertical and horizontal seismic waves before entering into structure is appeared. This isolation system that benefits whole structure with no need of maintenance and repairing is named “Geo Isolator”.

The results show the average reduction ability of 30~35% for geo-isolator while this magnitude is comparable to conventional methods such as base-isolation system.

Geo-Isolator Advantages


Geo-isolator is a new isolation system, which is located in the ground under the foundation. This system mit-igates earthquake peak acceleration such that for the worst case of ground 0.7g excitation, isolated structure experiences 0.35g peak acceleration. Results of this research are offered in the form of design spectra, by evaluating seven scaled excitations soil response analyses. The important outcomes of this research are as follow:


  • Based on frequency content, duration, peak values, number of high magnitude vibration and codes sug-gestion from FEMA-P695 and FEMa-440a, seven earthquake records are chosen and applied to a nonlinear plastic behavior model. Responses are in the form of response spectra that are changed into design curves for two types of pure ground soil and isolated soil.
  • Geo-isolator shows the average reduction of 30~35% for seismic waves effect, while this value is remark-able compared to the base-isolator system. This reduction is due to the number of vibration exceed the minimum level of 0.2g acceleration; in fact, this system limits the maximum value of acceleration that ground surface can experience.
  • Geo-isolator shows considerable reduction in low period range and equal values for high period domain. However, imposing weigh of real structure for high period range is forecasted to show notable reduction for those ranges too.
  • Geo-isolator system has the ability of being utilized for any superstructure with different shape, usage, and dimension. In fact, geo-isolator is located outside of the structure that makes a series of function between the isolator and superstructure response.
  • The great advantage of this new isolation system is the lack of requirement for making any changes into superstructure design procedure. Actually, since geo-isolator system changes the nature of ground motion, this system can be designed separately and the structure is designed via isolated design curve.
  • Codes obtain minimum design criteria which maintain a level of non-destructive protection for building. Geo-isolator system not only maintain this feature, but it is able to guarantee performances of important building after earthquake excitation because of its reduction level.
  • Although foundation has specific dimension, results can be expanded to conventional structures because of equal surface foundation node movement which is tied to the superstructure node.
Geo-Isolator
1. Structure
2. Bed soil
3. Foundation
4. Geo Isolator system
4.1 Main section
4.1.e Main section element schematic property
Surrounding Section:
4.2 Vertical surrounding section
4.3 Horizontal surrounding section
4.3.a Upper horizontal surrounding section
4.3.a.e Upper horizontal surrounding section element schematic property
4.3.b Lower horizontal surrounding section
Geo Isolator
For furthure information please click here
Composit backfill Isolator (CBI)

A new method called Composit backfill Isolator (CBI) has been introduced and designed to address dynamic waves. In this method, different modeling is used to determine the optimal design, thickness, and appropriate levels for the outer wall of the tunnel. The goal is for this wall to act as a protective cover, significantly reducing the interaction between the tunnel structure and the surrounding ground during an earthquake. By using the isolator to manage the incoming stress wave from the surrounding environment, the force distribution remains intact, and transverse deformation and bending forces are minimized. This protective layer functions by reducing the intensity of passing waves, thereby lowering the energy level experienced by the structure. For furthure information please refere to CBI page.
Geo-Isolator Material

Base-isolators is made from two parts of resistant section (lead) and mitigating section (rubber). Geo-isolator system categorizes in the same manner; however, allowable range of material stresses decrease from steel power to soil power by transferring isolator system from column-foundation junction to underground position. This changing over range of stresses help to consider more types of material as isolator aggregates. Appropriate choice for resistant section of geo-isolator is the same soil which not only accessible but also economical. For mitigating section, materials with high damping features, considerable hysteretic curve, low stiffness and rea-sonable ultimate stress is intended. Thus, although material used by past researchers was rubber, other materials with those four specific features have to find this chance to be considered.
RSM Material

Such material may be named as elastomers, soft polymers, oil derivatives and etc. In spite of this consideration, this research, similar to past researches, utilizes the mixture of rubber and soil as geo-isolator material. In geotechnical engineering, the mix of shredded tires and sand is known as rubber-sand mixture or RSM. ASTM D6270 − 08 (Reapproved 2012) standard approve applicability of this material and determines some rules for the manner of being used in civil engineering project such as lightweight retaining wall backfill, drainage layers for roads, thermal insu-lation to limit frost penetration, vibration damping layers for rail lines, lightweight embankment and replace-ment for soil or rock in other field applications. One of the important rule which is relevant to this project states that RSM layer cannot be buried more than of 3 m depth.
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All structures are design or redesigned to have the most optimized features: both engineering and economical aspects
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PSS
Prefabricated steel structures (PSS) are similar in construction to conventional in-situ structures, but the parts are manufactured modularly under regulated conditions.
ICE Group
We are a group of engineers who have been working for many years in designing and constructing buildings with different applications in Iran.
Structural Engineering and Construction
ICE design and implement of the latest and the most innovative engineering
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We provide the offshore and maritime industries with innovative platform design and construction, and engineering services.
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Based on the experiences we have gained, we decided to extend our field of activity to other countries and export designed and constructed structures that can be prefabricated.

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English | فارسی
Copyright © 2024 ICE. All rights reserved.

Seismic Isolation


From the beginning of the world, earthquakes have occurred and will continue happening in the future. The most dramatic and memorable images of earthquake damages are indeed those of structural collapse. There are two fundamental approaches to mitigate earthquake damages on structures. The first approach is fortifying the structural lateral resistance system in order to tolerate exerted earth motion forces. These systems include moment resistance frames, shear walls and braces. Diminishing earthquake forces before entering into the structure states as the second approach.


The first approach which is known by name of conventional method is well-known, constructor-accepted and it has been widely used within the engineering practice. However, this method increases dead load of structure which can be undesirably costly. The second approach is less practiced in the literature and needs to be more explored.


The main goal of partake quake-attenuating in buildings is to absorb energy and to attenuate the exerted forces into structures as a result of ground motions. Quake-attenuating systems are divided into two main categories of Dampers and Isolators. Quake-attenuating systems restrain transmission of forces into the structure; therefore, they make considerable subsidence in story acceleration and story drifts that overall result is visible in designing forces carried by each elements.


Notwithstanding achievements and developments in the field of quake-attenuating systems, applying them in the structures is proportional to following complicated technology and subtle engineering. Furthermore, installation and initiation of this systems depend on educated and expert crews and such attenuating systems need maintenance and repair during the useful structural life time. The aforementioned reasons lead to limitation and high-cost of utilizing such system especially in developing countries. Consequently, nowadays civil engineering suffers from the lack of such quake-attenuating systems to be able to respond simply but applicable mechanism at the same time for almost all types of structure.


Earthquake Resistance System


Nowadays civil engineering suffers from the lack of such quake-attenuating systems to be able to respond simply but applicable mechanism at the same time for almost all types of structure. Inspired by Patent No.: US 6,862,848B1, year 2008 Tsang published an article and introduced new system of isolation (Tsang 2008). This system is formed from rubber and soil mixture located in the base ground under structure foundation. Tsang showed the ability of mitigation of earthquake energy and isolation wave transition of this system for a ten story building. Afterward Kaneko conducted pseudo-dynamic response test and concluded that this system is effective for both seismic isolation and to prevent liquefaction and Xiong proposed that seismic isolation per-formance of rubber soil mixture is inferior to that of a foundation underlain by pure-sand, carried out by shak-ing table tests with a 1/3 scale rubbersoil mixtures model. All these evaluations prove the isolation ability of rubber-soil mixture as an isolator system. Therefore, researches over this new idea has begun and researches such as Senetakis et al. has started to find the behavioral parameters of rubber-soil mixture


Ground Isolation by Geo-Isolator

Seismic waves propagate through interior of the earth from earthquake focus to ground surface. The final portion of this traveling is often through the soil that can greatly influence the nature of shaking on the surface. Herein, a new isolation system is introduced to mitigate seismic waves before entering into the structure by changing the soil nature of underlying ground aggregates, named as geo-isolator (Sarraf et al 2024).

The Geo Isolator is placed between the structure and the sub soil to separate the structure from the bed soil. Consequently, separation of the whole structures and foundation on the entire contact surface from sub soil leads to change the nature of single point isolation into the extended continuous surface of 3D isolation over entire foundation-soil surface. In fact, the Geo Isolator effects whole incoming seismic waves by utilizing 3D effect of wave mitigation, damping, refraction and reflection for both vertical and horizontal seismic waves of all kinds of surface or body waves due to system mechanism that designed for all seismic arrival waves through the body of the bed soil.
Eartquake Mechanism

Building Rupture in Earthquakes

Turkey earthquake
Earthquake Japan Kobe 1995
Earthquake Hyatt Terraces Baguio 1990
Earthquake China Sichuan 2008
The Importance of Structural Design in Earthquake-Resistant Buildings

Structural design is a critical aspect of constructing buildings that can withstand the forces generated by earthquakes. Given the dynamic and unpredictable nature of seismic events, the importance of robust structural design cannot be overstated. Here are several key reasons why structural design is essential in earthquake-prone areas:

1. Life Safety
The primary goal of seismic-resistant design is to protect human lives. By ensuring that buildings can withstand seismic forces, structural engineers help prevent collapses and reduce the risk of injury or death during an earthquake1. This involves designing structures that can absorb and dissipate the energy released during seismic events, thereby maintaining their integrity and stability1.

2. Minimizing Damage
Effective structural design aims to minimize damage to buildings during an earthquake. This includes both structural and non-structural elements. By incorporating features such as shear walls, cross braces, and moment-resisting frames, engineers can enhance a building’s ability to resist lateral forces and reduce the extent of damage2. This not only protects the building itself but also the contents and occupants within.

3. Economic Considerations
The economic impact of earthquakes can be devastating. Well-designed structures can significantly reduce repair and reconstruction costs following a seismic event. Investing in proper structural design upfront can save substantial amounts of money in the long run by avoiding extensive damage and the associated costs of rebuilding3. Additionally, buildings that are designed to be earthquake-resistant are often more attractive to investors and insurers, potentially lowering insurance premiums.

4. Regulatory Compliance
Many regions with high seismic activity have stringent building codes and regulations that mandate earthquake-resistant design. Compliance with these codes is not only a legal requirement but also a critical aspect of ensuring public safety. Structural engineers must stay updated with the latest codes and standards to design buildings that meet or exceed these requirements4.

5. Sustainability and Resilience
Sustainable design is increasingly important in modern construction. Earthquake-resistant buildings contribute to sustainability by reducing the need for frequent repairs and reconstruction, which in turn lowers the environmental impact of construction activities. Moreover, resilient buildings ensure that communities can recover more quickly after an earthquake, maintaining social and economic stability5.

6. Innovative Technologies
Advancements in materials and construction technologies have significantly improved the effectiveness of seismic-resistant designs. Innovations such as base isolation, energy dissipation devices, and advanced damping systems allow buildings to better absorb and redirect seismic energy2. These technologies are integral to modern structural design and play a crucial role in enhancing the earthquake resilience of buildings.

Consequently, structural design is a fundamental component of constructing earthquake-resistant buildings. By prioritizing life safety, minimizing damage, considering economic impacts, ensuring regulatory compliance, promoting sustainability, and leveraging innovative technologies, structural engineers play a vital role in mitigating the risks associated with earthquakes. Investing in robust structural design is essential for protecting lives, reducing economic losses, and enhancing the resilience of communities in earthquake-prone areas.
Structural Design Value

Structural design plays a pivotal role in the overall cost of construction projects. It involves the detailed planning and analysis of the framework that supports a building or infrastructure, ensuring it can withstand various loads and stresses throughout its lifespan. Here are several key reasons why structural design is crucial in determining the final construction costs:

1. Material Optimization
A well-thought-out structural design can significantly optimize the use of materials. By selecting the appropriate materials and designing efficient structural systems, engineers can reduce waste and lower material costs. For instance, using high-strength materials in critical areas can reduce the amount of material needed, leading to cost savings1.

2. Labor Efficiency
Efficient structural design can simplify construction processes, making them quicker and less labor-intensive. Simplified designs often require fewer man-hours to construct, which directly translates to lower labor costs. For example, prefabricated components designed for easy assembly can speed up construction timelines and reduce labor expenses1.

3. Minimizing Rework and Delays
Accurate structural design minimizes the likelihood of errors during construction. Errors can lead to costly rework and project delays, both of which inflate the final cost. By ensuring that the design is precise and feasible, structural engineers help keep the project on schedule and within budget2.

4. Safety and Compliance
Structural design ensures that the building meets all safety standards and regulatory requirements. Non-compliance can result in fines, legal issues, and additional costs to rectify the problems. A robust design that adheres to all codes and standards prevents these potential financial setbacks3.

5. Long-term Durability and Maintenance
A well-designed structure is more durable and requires less maintenance over its lifespan. This long-term perspective on cost savings is crucial, as initial savings on construction can be offset by high maintenance costs if the structure is not designed properly. Durable designs reduce the need for frequent repairs and associated costs2.

6. Energy Efficiency
Structural design also impacts the energy efficiency of a building. Efficient designs can incorporate features that reduce energy consumption, such as proper insulation and natural lighting. These features not only lower operational costs but can also qualify for green building certifications, which can be financially beneficial3.

Consequently, structural design is a fundamental aspect of construction that significantly influences the final cost. By optimizing materials, improving labor efficiency, minimizing errors, ensuring compliance, enhancing durability, and promoting energy efficiency, structural design helps manage and reduce overall construction costs. Investing in a comprehensive and thoughtful structural design is essential for the financial success of any construction project.



Geo-Isolator

Patented
Geo-Isolator

The present invention is introduced as a new Seismic Isolator System with the aim of reducing forces of earthquake on structures and eliminating limitations of conventional seismic attenuating systems. This isolation system, without use of sophisticated and costly equipment that depend on educated and expert crews for installation and initiation, changes the upper soil layer of a site with new materials to completely separate the structure from underground soil. This idea is proposed inspired by the natural phenomena that the final portion of seismic waves traveling is often through the soil and characteristics of the soil can greatly influence nature of shaking at the ground surface. Therefore, by changing soil nature via materials with known specifications, 3D effect of deviation, refraction and reflection for both vertical and horizontal seismic waves before entering into structure is appeared. This isolation system that benefits whole structure with no need of maintenance and repairing is named “Geo Isolator”.

The results show the average reduction ability of 30~35% for geo-isolator while this magnitude is comparable to conventional methods such as base-isolation system.

Geo-Isolator Advantages


Geo-isolator is a new isolation system, which is located in the ground under the foundation. This system mit-igates earthquake peak acceleration such that for the worst case of ground 0.7g excitation, isolated structure experiences 0.35g peak acceleration. Results of this research are offered in the form of design spectra, by evaluating seven scaled excitations soil response analyses. The important outcomes of this research are as follow:


  • Based on frequency content, duration, peak values, number of high magnitude vibration and codes sug-gestion from FEMA-P695 and FEMa-440a, seven earthquake records are chosen and applied to a nonlinear plastic behavior model. Responses are in the form of response spectra that are changed into design curves for two types of pure ground soil and isolated soil.
  • Geo-isolator shows the average reduction of 30~35% for seismic waves effect, while this value is remark-able compared to the base-isolator system. This reduction is due to the number of vibration exceed the minimum level of 0.2g acceleration; in fact, this system limits the maximum value of acceleration that ground surface can experience.
  • Geo-isolator shows considerable reduction in low period range and equal values for high period domain. However, imposing weigh of real structure for high period range is forecasted to show notable reduction for those ranges too.
  • Geo-isolator system has the ability of being utilized for any superstructure with different shape, usage, and dimension. In fact, geo-isolator is located outside of the structure that makes a series of function between the isolator and superstructure response.
  • The great advantage of this new isolation system is the lack of requirement for making any changes into superstructure design procedure. Actually, since geo-isolator system changes the nature of ground motion, this system can be designed separately and the structure is designed via isolated design curve.
  • Codes obtain minimum design criteria which maintain a level of non-destructive protection for building. Geo-isolator system not only maintain this feature, but it is able to guarantee performances of important building after earthquake excitation because of its reduction level.
  • Although foundation has specific dimension, results can be expanded to conventional structures because of equal surface foundation node movement which is tied to the superstructure node.
  •  
Geo-Isolator
1. Structure
2. Bed soil
3. Foundation
4. Geo Isolator system
4.1 Main section
4.1.e Main section element schematic property
Surrounding Section:
4.2 Vertical surrounding section
4.3 Horizontal surrounding section
4.3.a Upper horizontal surrounding section
4.3.a.e Upper horizontal surrounding section element schematic property
4.3.b Lower horizontal surrounding section
Geo Isolator
For furthure information please click here
Composit backfill Isolator (CBI)

A new method called Composit backfill Isolator (CBI) has been introduced and designed to address dynamic waves. In this method, different modeling is used to determine the optimal design, thickness, and appropriate levels for the outer wall of the tunnel. The goal is for this wall to act as a protective cover, significantly reducing the interaction between the tunnel structure and the surrounding ground during an earthquake. By using the isolator to manage the incoming stress wave from the surrounding environment, the force distribution remains intact, and transverse deformation and bending forces are minimized. This protective layer functions by reducing the intensity of passing waves, thereby lowering the energy level experienced by the structure. For furthure information please refere to CBI page.
Geo-Isolator Material

Base-isolators is made from two parts of resistant section (lead) and mitigating section (rubber). Geo-isolator system categorizes in the same manner; however, allowable range of material stresses decrease from steel power to soil power by transferring isolator system from column-foundation junction to underground position. This changing over range of stresses help to consider more types of material as isolator aggregates. Appropriate choice for resistant section of geo-isolator is the same soil which not only accessible but also economical. For mitigating section, materials with high damping features, considerable hysteretic curve, low stiffness and rea-sonable ultimate stress is intended. Thus, although material used by past researchers was rubber, other materials with those four specific features have to find this chance to be considered.
RSM Material

Such material may be named as elastomers, soft polymers, oil derivatives and etc. In spite of this consideration, this research, similar to past researches, utilizes the mixture of rubber and soil as geo-isolator material. In geotechnical engineering, the mix of shredded tires and sand is known as rubber-sand mixture or RSM. ASTM D6270 − 08 (Reapproved 2012) standard approve applicability of this material and determines some rules for the manner of being used in civil engineering project such as lightweight retaining wall backfill, drainage layers for roads, thermal insu-lation to limit frost penetration, vibration damping layers for rail lines, lightweight embankment and replace-ment for soil or rock in other field applications. One of the important rule which is relevant to this project states that RSM layer cannot be buried more than of 3 m depth.
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