Blast Damage Mitigation Using Reinforced Concrete Panels and Energy Absorbing Connectors

Abstract

Abstract : This paper summarizes dynamic structural analysis and physical testing performed in order to develop energy absorbing connectors used for supporting pre-cast reinforced concrete panels subjected to blast waves. The work was conducted under the sponsorship of the Hoechst Celanese Chemical Group, Ltd., (Hoechst Celanese Corporation) who has authorized the release of this information. Reinforced concrete pre-cast panels can be used in new construction or as part of a building upgrade in situations where blast resistance is desired. Traditionally, these panels are mounted with fairly rigid supports and can be designed according to methods in TM 5-1300. The study described in this paper investigated the use of deformable, energy absorbing supports to achieve a reduction in panel damage and to reduce loads transferred to supporting frames. A specific energy absorbing mount was developed and tested under blast conditions. This paper includes a description of important nondimensional parameters relating blast loading to performance, application in design, and a summary of the blast testing conducted. The shock absorbing systems (panels plus mounts) were tested at quarter-scale, half-scale and full-scale for blast pressures up to 25 psi with durations out to 100 ms full-scale. There is good potential for application beyond these limits as well, in particular for higher pressures. The ability of the panels/connectors to resist load is more greatly challenged by long durations than by high pressures.