Brief
The University at Buffalo is collaborating on a National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)-funded project to improve the resilience of existing Unreinforced Masonry (URM) buildings during earthquakes while also creating educational opportunities for young adults. Read more about the largest structure of its kind ever tested in the U.S.
Insight
A new project led by the University at Buffalo aims to improve the earthquake resistance of Unreinforced Masonry (URM) buildings.
The project is backed by funding from the National Institute of Standards and Technology, and researchers hope their findings will inform the Seismic Evaluation and Retrofit of Existing Buildings, which uses performance-based methodologies to improve the ability of structures to withstand earthquakes.
The project team will also develop a framework for cost-effective retrofit methodologies that are suitable for existing URM buildings. The largest structure of its kind ever tested in the US will form part of the project, with construction work starting in January.
Job Corps, a free residential education and job training programme for young adults aged 16-24, is helping with the project, providing apprentices in the bricklaying local 3 union in Buffalo with real-world experience building the test structures.
By improving the resilience of existing URM buildings, the project will have a direct impact on ensuring that occupants and owners can benefit from life safety and cost improvements, according to Michael Schuller, structural engineer and president of Atkinson-Noland & Associates.
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