The main component of the Terratonics solution is a Terrapod which is a structural pedestal beam carrier that transfers the building’s associated loads to the engineered ground below. The Terrapod is made from an engineering polymer call Nyrim that is extremely tough and has both a high tensile and compression strength
Essentially this product is faster, stronger, greener and a more cost-effective solution. This system significantly reduces construction lead times and is up to 8 times faster than traditional cement foundations. It reduces CO2 emissions by over 90% in the buildings base by eliminating concrete requirements. As concrete is not required no water is needed saving 8 thousand litres of drinking quality water per average build.
Using the Terratonics foundation system can on average deliver a cost saving of 27% over traditional concrete foundations.
Ground conditions vary from site to site. Once the load bearing capacity of the site is determined by a California load bearing test or similar, the ground build up can be designed to withstand the buildings loads.
Engineering of the ground build-up can comprise the removal of topsoil, drainage of buildings perimeter, optimal compaction of subsoil, placing of layers of compacted aggregate with the addition of reinforced geo textiles/grid(as per specifications).
The engineered ground can encompass the entire buildings perimeter or be excavated into either strips or pads below the load points.
The Terratonics foundation system can use panelised floor systems such as SIP structural Insulated Panels, CLT (Cross Laminated Timber) or Timer Frame floor system.
The Structural Beams can be solid timber, Glulam, Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL), composite or Flitch type beams as above.
