New sand-based device cuts earthquake damage

January 14, 2025

Whereas conventional dissipation devices employ steel to mitigate earthquake damage, the “unique” patent impressively only requires sand to protect buildings from seismic attacks. 
 
University of Sharjah professors manufactured a system of containers filled with sand or other granular material that can effectively and efficiently “dissipate seismic attacks and protect buildings” from harm. 
 
Described as “an innovative energy dissipation device designed for seismic-resistant structures, it can flexibly withstand tremors. It can also better secure a structure from small and moderate winds or vibrations from trains.

Patent owners Prof. Moussa Leblouba and Prof. Mostafa Zahri invented numerous systems in a straightforward device dubbed the “Particle-Based Energy Dissipation Device.” 
 
Experimental studies showed that “the device improved energy dissipation efficiency and structural stability, making it an accessible solution for low-budget and retrofitted construction projects,” Prof. Leblouba extrapolated. 
 
“Our work demonstrates the untapped potential of natural granular materials to provide an economical and reliable solution for seismic resistance,” said Prof. Leblouba in a recent press release. “Unlike conventional systems, it requires no external power and is highly cost-effective.”  
 
Furthermore, the press release continues that “the effective damping ratio was estimated to be between 37% and 75%, which is higher than many expensive passive damping systems.” 
 
Sand strong enough to withstand earthquakes
 
The invention document states that the container can adapt to any size and shape related to a rectangle, cuboid, and others. It includes at least one movable plate made of thick welded steel, a slot, at least two holes, and two rods. The container includes a top plate that is horizontally slotted on the container. 
 
Once filled with aggregates such as sand or even steel balls with specific diameters, the “specially designed container” can absorb and dissipate seismic energy. The granular approach dampers robust “hysteresis” behavior. 
 
The term refers to “a lag between input and output in a system once a change in direction occurs,” as per the press release. The earthquake triggers or turns on the device, eliminating the need for external power.

 Sand’s natural properties allow it to adapt and shift under unstable conditions, most notably compress, which reduces vibrations. 
 
“The dual configuration,” Prof. Leblouba continues, “enhances stability and energy dissipation under medium-to-high loads. More silhouettes can, of course, be added to the device to achieve higher performance.” 
 
Dual configuration involves using two silhouettes. The rectangular steel plate pushes the particles back and forth, and more silhouettes can be added if needed. 
 
A cost-effective solution that works
 
Most systems currently in the market are “costly and hard to manufacture.” However, the “Particle-Based Energy Dissipation Device” is inexpensive and easy to assemble with parts that can be purchased in a hardware shop. 
 
The patent, granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office, represents a significant leap forward in making earthquake protection accessible to communities worldwide, ensuring safety without compromising affordability. 
 
“The results highlight the simplicity and effectiveness of using natural materials, proving that innovation doesn’t always have to come with a high price tag.”