NEXGEN MgO Earthquake Resistance
MgO based boards are a high-performance building material that have dimensional stability that provides a solid addition to earthquake-proof building design. MgO products are molded using coordinated chemical reactions so they are extremely solid after curing creating. This creates a hardened material that is enduringly stable. The Great Wall of China and Roman buildings that used MgO based cement are still around for a reason!
Also since MgO based building products are fire resistant, they help prevent the spread of fire and smoke which often occurs in earthquake damaged buildings.
Key Earthquake Resistance Facts
MgO is Strong
MgO based building materials are stronger than similar legacy materials such as drywall and plywood.
Use MgO in Walls, Floor, Roof
MgO panels can be used in sheathing, drywall, and underlayment applications to add impact resistance.
Use with other Strong materials
MgO panels and boards can be used lightweight steel risers and beams to provide additional strength.
Case Study Summary
SITUATION
Homeowners in earthquake zones want homes that stand-up to the shocks and vibrations and provide a safe environment for their familes.
SOLUTION
MgO based panels and boards have more strength than similar legacy building materials, and can be used in designed-for-strength assemblies.
IMPACT
Builders can provide earthquake resistant homes and buildings that can better withstand shocks and vibration and help protect occupants.
Need clarification?
What is Earthquake Resistance?
To withstand collapse from an earthquake, buildings must redistribute the side-to-side forces that travel through them during seismic events. The horizontal movement vibrates walls, floors, columns, beams, and the connectors that hold them together. The inherent strength and impact resistance of NEXGEN MgO boards can be an important contributor to a building's earthquake resistance.
What standards are used for Earthquake resistance?
Some provisions in the International Building Code (IBC), International Residential Code (IRC), and the International Existing Building Code (IEBC) are intended to ensure that structures can adequately resist seismic forces during earthquakes. NEXGEN MgO board testing has exceeded the ASTM C1325 standards for Shear bond strength, Falling ball impact, Nail head pull-through, and Compression Indentation.
What are the best Earthquake Resistance building techniques ?
Documents such as the FEMA P-749 document provide extensive information on Earthquake Resistant Design Concepts. Some of today's best building practices include: Creating a flexible foundation, counter forces with damping, shielding buildings from vibrations, reinforcing the building's structure with shear walls and horizontal frames, and using earthquake resistant building materials like NEXTGEN MgO boards.