Earthquake strengthening with carbon fibre - a podcast by RNZ

World-leading New Zealand research hopes to provide a cheaper solution for earthquake strengthening in higher-risk buildings. Kathryn speaks with Dr Enrique del Rey Castillo, University of Auckland Civil and Environmental Engineering lecturer and lead researcher in a project to earthquake strengthen damaged or earthquake-prone concrete walls, columns, and in a world first, floors with carbon fibre patches. Looking at 'axial failure' in pre 1980s concrete buildings, Dr del Rey Castillo's team has already tested fifty-six different combinations of concrete, steel and carbon fibre to see when and how walls and floors break. The University of Auckland engineers have been wrapping danger-spots on at-risk walls in carbon fibre and testing whether this solution can bring the walls up to modern earthquake performance standards.

Further episodes of Nine To Noon

Further podcasts by RNZ

Website of RNZ