Ankara University Develops Innovative Brick Technology to Improve Earthquake Resistance
Ankara University researchers have developed an innovative brick technology designed to improve the earthquake performance of masonry buildings. Developed by the Department of Civil Engineering, the new design uses biomimicry-inspired void geometry to create lighter bricks while making more efficient use of materials.
Wall-scale experiments showed that the new bricks increased in-plane shear capacity by more than 80% compared with walls built using conventional masonry bricks. The findings indicate significant potential for improving the seismic resistance of masonry structures, particularly in earthquake-prone regions.
The technology is the result of approximately five years of research and development. A patent application was filed for the vertically perforated masonry brick design, while the “ArchBrick” brand was registered to inventor Dr. Alper Çelik.
Experimental studies supported by TÜBİTAK were conducted to evaluate the structural performance of the bricks. The research findings were also published in two international scientific journals.
To move the technology from laboratory research to industrial production, Ankara University signed a licensing agreement with Ortaş Tuğla. The agreement will support technology transfer and enable large-scale production of the innovative bricks.
University Rector Prof. Dr. Necdet Ünüvar emphasized the importance of developing earthquake-resistant construction materials for Türkiye. The project represents a promising example of university-industry collaboration aimed at improving structural safety and supporting more resilient buildings.
