In February 2025, the University of Sharjah registered a patent for an innovative device designed to reduce the impact of earthquakes on buildings. Developed by Dr. Moussa Lablouba and Dr. Mostafa Zahry from the College of Engineering, the device uses sand or other granular materials to dissipate seismic energy and has been granted a patent by the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

Key Features of the Device:

• High Damping Efficiency:
  Tests showed that the device can achieve a damping rate between 37% and 75%, outperforming many traditional and costly systems.

• Low Cost and Easy to Manufacture:
  The device relies on readily available natural materials like sand, making it economical, easy to manufacture, and simple to install—especially in resource-limited areas.

• Simple and Flexible Design:
  It consists of a container with a movable plate and openings, and can be customized in various shapes and sizes to suit different building types.

• Wide Applications:
  The device can be used in residential, commercial, and government buildings, as well as in railway facilities, to counteract earthquakes and vibrations caused by wind or passing trains.

This innovation marks a significant step toward enhancing structural safety through simple and effective solutions and highlights the University of Sharjah’s advancement in civil engineering research.