General design considerations for applying thermal insulation layers underneath foundations of buildings placed within the main seismic regions of Romania

Abstract

Worldwide common efforts towards developing a sustainable, competitive, eco-friendly and efficient built environment have led to a new legal and technical spectrum of rules and requirements for high energy performance buildings. Provision of solutions for a continuous thermal envelope is sometimes essential in designing such buildings. Mitigating, as much as possible, the thermal bridging phenomenon is highly important and should be accounted from the very beginning in the design process. This issue can be addressed through various solutions when it comes to thermally insulating the superstructure but can be quite challenging and limited at infrastructure level, particularly for buildings set in areas exposed to earthquakes. This paper explores existing technical literature, local codes, norms and standards, with the twofold purpose of: (1) providing a view on the relevant available research and design prescriptions; and (2) outlining incipient general design considerations related to the feasibility of applying specific thermal insulation materials beneath buildings located within the main seismic regions of Romania.

The risk‐targeted verification model of earthquake‐induced sliding displacement of low‐rise thermally base‐insulated buildings

“…However, this solution type may not be suitable for taller buildings due to the limited compressive capacity of the thermal insulation layers. In addition, this approach may represent an issue in earthquake‐prone areas 8,9 . If buildings are not strongly embedded in the ground, major earthquakes can trigger sliding between the foundation pad and thermal insulation layer, in addition to the rocking of the building.…”

“…In addition, this approach may represent an issue in earthquake-prone areas. 8,9 If buildings are not strongly embedded in the ground, major earthquakes can trigger sliding between the foundation pad and thermal insulation layer, in addition to the rocking of the building. Sliding displacements are usually not critical in terms of causing building collapse; however, they may cause damage to gas, electricity or water lifelines, which can trigger further domino effects such as fires or explosions, with the potential for loss of life (e.g.…”