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Seismic base isolation using low-cost Scrap Tire Pads (STP)

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Abstract

This paper focuses on the experimental studies conducted on the development of no-cost seismic base isolation pads using scrap automobile tire pads (STP). The mechanical and dynamic properties of STP specimens made from different tire brands, with different number of layers, and orientations are evaluated experimentally. The tests are conducted using (a) axial compression tests, (b) lumped mass small displacement free vibration, and (c) large displacement (inclined plate and reverse-cyclic) static shear tests. The results of these STP tests are compared among themselves and against a commercially available laminated rubber bearing specimen. A general relationship has been proposed which formulates the stiffness differences between the two principal directions of rectangular pads. The paper includes three hypothetical design applications for the use of STPs.

STPs are prepared by placing 18 cm × 20 cm cut tread sections layers of car tires on top each other. Larger size STPs can also be formed by placing longer strips of tread sections (integer multiples of tread width) side by side in alternating direction layers or using a woven structure. Test results have shown that the friction between tire layers is sufficient to keep layers intact. Although STP application cannot eliminate foundation-basement structural requirements, it presents advantages such as low-technology no-cost pad, weight reduction, ease of handling, simple shear stiffness adjustment by changing the number of layers, and environmental benefits by recycling scrap tires.

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Acknowledgements

This study is a part of “Seismic Performance Improvement of Masonry Houses Project”, which is supported by The World Bank (DM2003 SPIM-1451) and TUBITAK (MAG-104I011). Both institutions are gratefully acknowledged by the authors. Special thanks are extended to Mr. İbrahim Sirer at The World Bank, Mr. Huseyin Akova at TUBITAK, FNSS Savunma Sistemleri A.Ş, and Middle East Technical University, Medical and Health Services, X-Ray office.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Civil Engineering Department, Structural Mechanics Lab, Middle East Technical University, Ankara, 06531, Turkey

    Ahmet Turer

  2. Scott Wilson Group, Basingstoke, UK

    Bayezid Özden

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  1. Ahmet Turer
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  2. Bayezid Özden
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Correspondence to Ahmet Turer.

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Turer, A., Özden, B. Seismic base isolation using low-cost Scrap Tire Pads (STP). Mater Struct 41, 891–908 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1617/s11527-007-9292-3

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1617/s11527-007-9292-3

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