Research project is (co) funded by the Slovenian Research Agency.
UL Member: Faculty of Mathematics and Physics
Project: Seismic insulators made of magnetoactive elastomers
Period: 1. 10. 2024 - 30. 9. 2026
Head: Gašper Kokot
Research activity: Natural sciences and mathematics
Project description:
One of the modern options for reducing the negative consequences of earthquakes is seismic insulation. Unlike the applicable regulations, seismic isolation ensures the structure's integrity and thus the building's functionality in the event of an earthquake. The basic principle is separating the upper structure from the movement of the floor. The main task of seismic insulation is to reduce the energy supplied by the earthquake to the structure, which can be achieved either by extending the oscillatory time of the structure, or by installing special devices (dampers) for the dissipation of seismic energy.
This project uses magnetoactive elastomers (MAE) to reduce the seismic energy input. Magnetoactive elastomers (MAEs) are polymers that respond to magnetic fields due to the addition of magnetic microparticles. These materials have mechanical properties which depend on the magnitude of the external magnetic field. This potentially allows active control over the material's response in an earthquake.
