Seismic safety: The HYCAD Project
In Europe, and particularly in Italy, the threat of earthquakes has prompted universities and the construction industry to invest in research into anti-seismic technologies. The HYCAD project, involving eight partners including the Pittini Group, worked from 2020 to 2023 to develop new and innovative solutions in this field. Focusing on the ductility and strength of construction materials, the project identified double-layered latticed reinforced concrete slabs as a safe solution that is also more economical and faster to implement than the traditional reinforced concrete system.
What are the benefits of the use of latticed reinforced concrete slabs for seismic safety?
The engineers of the Pittini Group have played an important role in the HYCAD research project, providing all the studies and calculations carried out over time to develop precast double slab systems to achieve competitive construction solutions.
Numerical and experimental studies have confirmed the advantages of these systems, highlighting the safety of installation and significant time savings. These alternative technologies allow greater speed of execution while guaranteeing controlled and certified quality. This approach not only improves building safety but also simplifies structural reinforcement and seismic design. The HYCAD hybrid system ensures resistance to a seismic event, verified in compliance with European technical standards (Eurocodes). It also simplifies any subsequent structural repair work required after an earthquake. Damage is mainly localised in the structural joints between the walls and steel columns: therefore, damage to the walls or columns is limited to the individual elements of the system, which in turn are relatively limited and easier to repair compared to a traditional full body structure.
Quality and know-how working for safety
The Pittini Group is committed to the continued research and development of solutions that ensure the safety of buildings and people, monitoring structures and materials. The company was the first to introduce the electrowelded lattice girder, revolutionising modern construction. In 1997, the Pittini Group developed the HD® high ductility steel, anticipating the seismic regulations that would later be applied in the construction industry. This commitment to excellence is reflected in the continuous investment in research, the choice of the best materials and the use of innovative processes, providing customers with a firm guarantee of reliability and quality.
