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September 16, 2025 - GTU Office of Press and Public Relations Türkiye takes its efforts in earthquake preparedness and structural resilience to the next level through international collaboration. An agreement on “Planning Support for the Establishment of a Seismic Isolator Test Laboratory” is signed between the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change, Gebze Technical University (GTU), and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
The project, led by the Marmara Research and Education Complex for Developing Disaster-Resilient Societies (MARTEST) at GTU, will focus on planning the establishment of a Seismic Isolator Test Laboratory in Türkiye. Japan’s extensive experience in earthquake engineering will be shared through this collaboration. The laboratory will be used to study the effects of seismic shocks on structures and to develop innovative technologies for damping and improving the seismic resilience of structures. This initiative goes beyond establishing a laboratory; it is actually part of a broader goal to create disaster-resilient cities. The project aims to provide scientific data and technological solutions to assess current infrastructure needs and make new constructions safer.
Signatures Signed, Collaboration Formalized The signing ceremony took place at Gebze Technical University, with participation from GTU Vice-Rector Prof. Elif Damla Arısan, JICA Türkiye Chief Representative Daisuke Watanabe, and numerous academics. Through this agreement, Turkish and Japanese researchers will jointly work to minimize the damage of potential earthquakes across Türkiye, with a particular focus on the Marmara Region.
Seismic isolation technology reduces the transfer of earthquake energy to structures through specialized systems placed between the building and its foundation, thereby mitigating the impact of tremors on the superstructure. This laboratory will play a key role in promoting this technology in Türkiye and fostering the development of domestic engineering solutions. The agreement not only establishes a strong foundation for scientific research but also strengthens Türkiye’s position in earthquake engineering on the international stage. |
