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Modular Buildings Demonstrate Exceptional Seismic Performance Tests

Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-04-21 Origin: Site

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A groundbreaking study by the Guangzhou University Engineering Seismology Research Center has validated the resilience of modular construction in high-magnitude earthquakes, marking a pivotal advancement for sustainable and disaster-resistant architecture. The research, published in December 2024, highlights the potential of modular buildings to redefine safety standards in seismically active regions. Especially for the prefab bathroom unit of the modular construction, the seismic resistance is guaranteed in terms of materials, which resolves the concerns of most users.

Modular Building

Key Findings from the Vibration Table Tests

The study subjected a 9-module concrete MiC (Modular Integrated Construction) high-rise prototype to simulated earthquakes equivalent to 7.0 magnitude shocks, surpassing China’s national seismic design code requirements. The 6.75m × 5.5m × 9m structure, composed of prefabricated concrete modules, demonstrated:

· Zero structural damage under extreme lateral forces

· Minimal residual displacement (<5mm) after multiple quake cycles

· Effective energy dissipation through innovative inter-module connections

·Consistent performance across 6-degree, 7-degree, and 8-degree seismic scenarios

"The test results exceeded our expectations," stated Prof. Zhou Fulin, lead researcher and academician at the Chinese Academy of Engineering. "The modular system’s ability to maintain integrity under severe shaking rivals traditional reinforced concrete structures while offering 30-50% faster construction times."

Technical Innovations Driving Resilience

The breakthrough stems from three core design features:

1. High-Strength Bolted Connections: Patented steel joints with friction-grip plates allowed controlled movement during shaking while maintaining load-bearing capacity.

2. Composite Floor Diaphragms: Integral steel-concrete slabs enhanced torsional rigidity, reducing inter-story drift by 40% compared to conventional modular designs.

3. Base Isolation Technology: Rubber bearings at module foundations absorbed 70% of seismic energy, protecting critical components from damage.

Industry Implications and Market Trends

The findings align with global shifts toward modular construction, projected to grow at a 7.9% CAGR through 2030 . Key drivers include:

· Sustainability: 90% reduction in construction waste compared to traditional methods

· Cost Efficiency: 20-40% lower lifecycle costs due to factory-controlled quality

· Disaster Response: Rapid deployment for emergency housing in regions like Japan and Chile

"Modular buildings now offer a viable alternative to conventional construction in high-risk zones," noted Dr. Ding Yang of Tianjin University, whose 2023 research on modular steel structures laid groundwork for the Guangzhou study . "These systems combine earthquake resistance with offsite manufacturing’s scalability, addressing housing shortages while improving safety."

Expert Validation and Regulatory Updates

Independent reviews by the China Academy of Building Research confirmed the test methodology’s rigor, recommending modular designs for inclusion in updated seismic codes. The U.S. National Institute of Building Sciences is also evaluating the technology, with pilot projects underway in California’s earthquake-prone regions.

"Modular construction is no longer a niche solution," concluded Dr. Chi Yin of Wuhan University. "With proper connection design, these buildings can outperform traditional structures in both resilience and sustainability—provided they adhere to rigorous testing protocols."

The full report, "Seismic Performance of Prefabricated MiC High-Rise Structures," is available for download at Guangzhou University Engineering Seismology Research Center.

For media inquiries, contact:
Prof. Zhou Fulin
Guangzhou University Engineering Seismology Research Center
Email: zhoufulin@gzhu.edu.cn
Phone: +86-20-3936-6888

Editor’s Note: This study builds on earlier research by institutions like Hunan University, which in 2015 conducted the world’s first 1:1 seismic test of a prefabricated villa , and industry leaders like China State Construction, which has deployed modular systems in over 50 disaster-relief projects globally.