Research project for placing wind turbines in earthquake zones

Early results from research into the impact of earthquakes on the protection of wind turbine foundations are showing some interesting trends. The PhD research by Diarmid Xu at Cambridge University, part-funded by HR Wallingford, is highly relevant as more wind farms are built in seismically active areas such as Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, North America and India.

Diarmid’s investigations are building on research showing that the rocks dumped around monopile offshore wind turbine foundations to protect them from erosion, can sink during earthquakes. To make sure turbines remain protected, it is important to understand how much rock is lost. “During an earthquake, the sand around the monopiles liquefies, which we call seismic liquefication" explains... ... More: Official Press Release HR Wallingford

Keywords:

HR Wallingford, seismic, earthquake zone, wind farm, wind turbine, foundation, area, Japan, South Korea, Asia, earthquake, monopile, Diarmid