It’s widely believed that approximately 500,000 earthquakes occur globally each year, with around 100,000 being noticeable and a mere 100 causing significant damage. National Geographic highlights that the underground disposal of wastewater from fracking might increase seismic risks, particularly in regions like the U.S. Southwest and Midwest, where fault lines remain poorly mapped. Luckily, both businesses and individuals can act proactively to safeguard their assets. Regardless of whether earthquakes stem from tectonic shifts, volcanic activity, or fracking, we must all be prepared. By reinforcing our structures against seismic events today, we can avoid billions in damages when the next major quake strikes.
Oklahoma stands out as the U.S. state with the highest seismic activity. Interestingly, it now experiences twice as many earthquakes annually as California. Previously, Oklahoma averaged just one earthquake per year above a 3.0 magnitude on the Richter scale, whereas now the state records one daily. What explains this dramatic rise? Although definitive conclusions haven’t been reached, hydraulic fracturing—or “frackingâ€â€”is the leading contender. This method involves drilling deep into the earth and injecting high-pressure fluids to fracture shale layers, releasing trapped natural gas. Each day, fracking produces roughly 300,000 barrels of gas. However, critics argue that the fluid—composed of water, sand, and sometimes up to 600 chemicals—could contaminate water supplies, expose people to radiation, and trigger earthquakes. Despite these concerns, scientific evidence hasn’t definitively linked fracking to the uptick in U.S. quakes. The British Geological Survey notes that fluid injection can indeed induce minor tremors. Yet, experts caution that correlation doesn't equate to causation. Many earthquakes happen in areas with increased fracking, but other elements—like shifting tectonic plates, volcanic activity, or natural geological instabilities near oil and gas reservoirs—might also play roles.
When it comes to earthquakes, preparation is key. San Francisco is contemplating making seismic retrofits mandatory for vulnerable buildings prone to collapse during quakes. For years, the city has offered voluntary programs, but only about 50 property owners have participated so far. Proposed laws would require thousands of San Francisco property owners to reinforce older, unstable buildings, costing an estimated $60,000 to $130,000 per structure. Soft-story buildings—multi-story wooden structures with garages or large openings on the ground level—are highly susceptible to severe damage or even destruction during earthquakes. Around 3,000 buildings in San Francisco face retrofitting costs if the new regulations pass. While the total price tag is projected at $260 million, these upgrades could save $1.5 billion in future damages after the next major earthquake.
Carbon fiber has emerged as a go-to material for seismic reinforcement. Ten times stronger than steel yet virtually weightless, it offers immense benefits. A southwestern U.S. manufacturing plant required upgrades to its three reinforced concrete walls due to structural changes and higher load demands. Choosing HJ3's CivilTM hybrid carbon fiber system, they first sanded and primed the walls before applying a high-modulus paste and over 30,000 square feet of carbon fabric. This system enhanced wall strength and flexibility, meeting seismic standards while saving 40% compared to traditional methods like steel or replacement. The project finished in three weeks instead of months, avoiding 625 tons of steel and concrete waste, saving 36 million gallons of water, reducing 4 million kWh of energy consumption, and preventing 1,200 tons of CO2 emissions. If your building needs seismic updates, contact HJ3 at [insert email].
â€
Marble Grain Decorative PVC Film
Application: cabinet board skin, furniture cover, flooring ect.
Texture: matt, glossy, flat, 2D, soft touch, embossing
Feature: 1.environmental protection 2. non-toxic and odorless 3. high emulation and super stereoscopic impression 4. cold and wear resistance
5.self-extinguishing from fire, can prevent smoke generation.
Marble Grain Decorative PVC Film,Stone design interior film,Marble Grain PVC Film
JINJIANG HONGFILMS MANUFACTURING AND TRADING CO.,LTD , https://www.hongfilms.asia