The current building design methods are mainly focused on enhancing the connectivity between different components of the structure. While this approach proves to be effective after minor failures, it can lead to a higher risk of progressive collapse following a major failure. Instances like the collapse of Champlain Towers, a building in Peñíscola in 2021, and another in the Iranian city of Abadan in 2022 showcase the consequences of such failures.
A groundbreaking design method proposed by the ICITECH-UPV aims to address this limitation and create more resilient buildings. This innovative approach, published in the journal Nature, emphasizes the importance of isolating a collapse to the damaged part of the structure while protecting the rest of the building. Co-author Jose M. Adam, along with Nirvan Makoond, Andri Setiawan, and Manuel Buitrago, highlights the significance of this new design method in preventing catastrophic collapses and safeguarding human lives.
At the core of the UPV team’s methodology is the use of a structural fuse to contain damage within a building. This concept draws parallels to safeguarding an electrical system with fuses to prevent overloads. By implementing this approach, the building maintains structural integrity under normal conditions but can segment damaged areas to prevent the spread of failures, reducing the extent of damage and avoiding total collapse. The use of conventional construction materials and techniques ensures minimal impact on the overall cost of the structure.
The effectiveness of this new design method has been validated through a full-scale building test using prefabricated concrete. The researchers are now working on expanding the application of this approach to buildings made of in-situ concrete and steel. This development marks a significant milestone within the Endure project and showcases the potential for preventing catastrophic collapses in future building designs.
A pivotal test was conducted in June 2023 as part of the Endure project to validate the performance of this innovative design method. The test, carried out on a complete full-scale building, successfully isolated a large initial failure within a specific part of the structure, preventing its propagation throughout the building. It is worth noting that all research and testing were conducted exclusively at the UPV, with the researchers involved being integral members of the institution.
The emergence of this new design method represents a significant advancement in the field of building design and construction. By prioritizing the containment of failures and preventing catastrophic collapses, this approach paves the way for safer and more resilient structures in the future. As research continues and applications expand, the potential for enhancing building safety and mitigating risks associated with structural failures becomes increasingly promising.