Inerter Chain−Embedded Finite Locally Resonant Meta‐Foundations for Enhanced Seismic Protection of Liquid Storage Tanks

Liquid storage tanks exhibit complex dynamic behaviors under seismic excitation due to fluid−structure interaction, where resonance effects amplify sloshing, elevate hydrodynamic pressures, and increase the risk of structural damage. While traditional bearing−based isolation reduces seismic responses by introducing a flexible isolation layer, it remains constrained by tension‐induced bearing failure, structural overturning, and aging degradation. To address these limitations, an inerter chain‐embedded finite locally resonant meta‐foundation (ICeMF) is proposed, with emphasis placed on revealing the intrinsic advantages of the inerter chain and establishing a theoretical basis for dual‐function−oriented optimization. The mechanical model and construction scheme of ICeMF‐equipped tanks are formulated with consideration of fluid−structure interaction, from which governing equations and stochastic analytical responses are derived for performance assessment. Parametric sensitivity is examined to characterize the vibration mitigation capacity of the ICeMF in relation to both static load‐bearing and dynamic isolation functions. In addition, a dual‐function−based parameter design procedure is developed for both new ICeMF‐equipped tanks and retrofitted tuned mass damper−based meta‐foundations, whose detailed methodology and effectiveness are verified through benchmark design cases. The results indicate that substantial seismic isolation is achieved by the ICeMF through the synergistic resonance of tuned mass and inerter‐chain devices, providing superior mitigation of sloshing, base shear, and input energy compared to existing meta‐foundations. Moreover, the proposed dual‐function design framework satisfies multiperformance control objectives within target demands, and the derived practical design curves quantitatively define the optimal coupling between local resonant units and inerter devices, thereby enabling efficient preliminary design. Distinct from conventional bearing‐type systems, the ICeMF embodies a nonbearing isolation technology that achieves vibration adjustment without compromising vertical load−bearing reliability, thus broadening applicability to diverse foundation configurations.