Technology Platform 1
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Large-scale Laboratory Facilities
Leader: Rick Henry
Deputy Leader: Alessandro Palermo
Both the University of Canterbury and University of Auckland have recently constructed new earthquake engineering laboratories for large-scale experimental testing, a total commitment of $37M in direct support of QuakeCoRE research activities. QuakeCoRE provides a means for these facilities to become a national resource through shared use agreements, providing access for all QuakeCoRE researchers regardless of institution. Furthermore, strategic collaboration with international research centres with a shared focus on earthquake resilience will enable access to unique experimental facilities not available in New Zealand. This Technology Platform accelerates the development of large-scale laboratory testing procedures, instrumentation, and multi-institutional collaboration.
Key Thrust Areas
1: Sustained capacity
Sustained capacity for state-of-the-art experimental research, including training of research and laboratory personnel on advanced large-scale testing techniques and equipment. (Intended to build long-term capacity).
2: NZ Inc approach
Development of a NZ Inc approach to laboratory testing, including, but not limited to, development of policies on sharing of lab space and equipment, and development of resources and/or software to facilitate collaboration between laboratories and increase efficiency of operations within laboratories.
3: International lab facilities
Exploring approaches to enable access to internationally-unique lab facilities and enhance international collaboration for QuakeCoRE projects.