Shaking table investigation of a novel, low-cost, base isolation technology using recycled rubber

This paper details the findings of an experimental program that assessed the seismic performances of a novel low-cost base isolation device. The proposed bearings are referred to as recycled rubber–fiber-reinforced bearings (RR-FRBs). Devices composed of a low-cost recycled elastomer and reinforced with fiber sheets were manufactured and tested. The main revolutionary concepts investigated in this study are as follows: low-performance elastomers can be used to produce rubber isolators, and vulcanization can be prevented by bonding different layers with an elastic compound. This study addresses all design and technical aspects related to the implementation of the proposed base isolation system. Shaking table tests showed a significant improvement in the seismic performance of an RR-FRB isolated building with respect to a corresponding fixed-base structure.