What is QuakeShield?
QuakeShield is a lightweight solution for earthquake-proof construction. Developed by people from Groningen for people from Groningen, but it has worldwide potential. It is a patented, lightweight solution that reinforces brickwork beforehand and afterwards – offering short lead times and an attractive price tag. The solution – which amply meets the current standard for quakeproof new buildings – is scientifically validated by TU Delft and TU Eindhoven.
Unique system
The unique QuakeShield system works as follows: grooves are milled into the wall in order to place carbon strips (eight times stronger than steel), which are filled with a specially developed tough elastic adhesive. Subsequently, carbon mesh reinforcement is applied on one side. Finally, this is finished with a cementitious or polymer reinforcement layer. The innovative system is able to reinforce both sides of the brickwork – by applying the carbon reinforcement into the wall from one side.
Reinforcement on the inside and outside of the property
QuakeShield can be applied on the inside and outside of the property if there is a cavity wall. The advantage is that the property remains intact on the inside. The occupants do not even have to leave their property. When QuakeShield is applied on the outside of the cavity wall, the outer cover is partially removed. Logically, this immediately offers opportunities to take insulation and sustainability measures.
When a property consists of a stone wall, QuakeShield is normally applied on the inside of the property, as a result of which the characteristic outer side remains unaffected. If post-insulation of the outer wall is opted for, it is preferable to install QuakeShield on the outside for financial reasons.
