Performance of prototype seismic isolators reinforced with fiber and a recycled rubber tire matrix

Seismic isolators are passive control devices that reduce the energy transferred from an earthquake to the superstructure, this avoiding damage to building elements. Seismic isolators are classified according to their connection to the structure; for example, unbonded isolators lack mechanical connections with the building. Unbonded fiber-reinforced elastomeric isolators (U-FREIs) are formed of intercalated layers of bidirectional polyester mesh used as reinforcement and agglomerated ground rubber from end-of-life tires (ELTs) as an elastomeric matrix. This paper presents the mechanical behavior of U-FREIs built at a reduced scale to provide an affordable alternative for the mitigation of seismic forces that affect low-rise buildings. The isolators were designed for a low-rise residential frame structure located in an area of high seismic hazard and were subjected to shear and compression tests to characterize their mechanical behavior. The experimental results show good behavior of the prototypes with respect to standards and design requirements.