Experimental analysis of the seismic isolation of a tank with liquid using a geosynthetics interface

Abstract

An interface composed of synthetic materials such as high-strength nonwoven geotextiles and Ultra High Molecular Weight PolyEthylenes (UHMWPE), placed underneath foundations of structures can provide seismic protection. This is achieved by dissipating energy to the superstructure through a controlled sliding between these two surfaces. Shaking table tests were performed to a storage tank with mat foundation and with and without water conditions. Harmonic and two directional seismic excitations were used for describing the dynamic response of the system. The results showed that the tank isolated with the geosynthetic interface suffered a remarkable reduction in the transmitted accelerations from the excitation. Accompanying these reductions slip deformations took place along the interface. In addition, lesser water pressures in the inner wall were measured in comparison with the tank without geosynthetic isolation. The experimental results demonstrate the technical feasibility of this isolation system, which allows its easy implementation and cost-effective relationship to be used in earthquake hazard mitigation.