Structures that Adhere to Safe Architectural Standards

As we entered a new millennium, we are witnessing more natural catastrophic incidences than ever. The year started with wildfires, earthquakes and everything else. The consequences of global warming are manifold. These events can wreak havoc on human life, wildlife and the environment. Together we can make a difference in combating the disastrous effects of these unforeseen events. However, prevention is also the best way to go about it.

Earthquakes have become a regular occurrence causing massive damages. While no structure can be fully earthquake proof, engineers are using innovative techniques and designs to safeguard new structures. These construction techniques help to reduce destruction and save precious lives. An earthquake with a magnitude of 6 Richter scale and above can damage any building. Lack of habitable land and increasing human population are leading to the construction of high-rise buildings that stand at a higher risk of being destroyed by earthquakes. It is also easier to evacuate people through stairs in a low-rise building compared to a high-rise building. However, modern evacuation techniques are often inbuilt in tall buildings. A popular example would be the World trade centre tragedy in 2011, many people could not make it to the ground floor because of the height of the building. Engineers are striving to create partially earthquake-resistant structures. Unreinforced bricks plastered with mortar are dangerous structures and can be reduced to rubble in case of any seismic shock waves. MP Birla is one of the best cement companies in India. The major types of cement manufactured by MP Birla are OPC, PSC, and PPC.

Portland Slag cement is used to create strong and durable structures. If you are constructing your building, get the best durable Portland cement for general construction work.

The Burj Khalifa in Dubai is the tallest mega-structure in the world standing at a height of 2722 feet. This massive skyscraper can withstand earthquakes up to 7 Richter scale. It is built on a 52-foot-deep steel and concrete foundation. The vertical and horizontal loadings are supported by a unique truss system, making it resistant to torsional movements. Shanghai tower with a height of 2000 feet, is the second tallest building in the world. The site is primarily filled with soft, clay-based soil. To make this structure earthquake resistant, engineers incorporated 980 piles and secured 2.15 million cubic feet of reinforced concrete. It also consists of a tuned mass damper to control swaying during earthquake or high winds. A series of shock absorbers helps in optimal counterbalancing. Taipei 101 located in Taiwan is one of the tallest structures in the world. It has a massive internal damper to control swaying and minimize the possibility of structural damage, in case of an earthquake. Recently a few Earthquakes occurred in Northern Indian region.

The foundation of any building is the most important of any other part. Stay updated with the latest architectural innovations in the construction industry.