Canadian Technology to save lives in earthquakes

In collaboration with the University of Ottawa, National Research Council Canada (NRC) is developing high performance structures that incorporate high performance concrete and advanced composite materials to help make critical structures more shock-resistant. The materials are made of fibre-reinforced polymers. By adding a shock absorber, the new construction materials could improve the safety of critical infrastructure in Canada and around the world.

As well as developing new technology, NRC indicated that they are developing a risk management approach, which involves identifying public infrastructure that is critical. The goal would then be to incorporate shock-resistant materials into key structures at critical stress points—such as the load-bearing columns holding up a highway overpass—in order to provide adequate strength and safety margins, and extend their service life.

After NRC's new building materials and systems have been fully evaluated, including testing that simulates the effects of blast or heavy impacts, they will be made available to Canadian companies and critical infrastructure owners.

Check out the NRC website at http://www.nrc-cnrc.gc.ca/eng/index.html