Investigation of optimum blast energy dampening structure design

Structures are designed considering contact, close contact, and distant explosion loads to withstand the effects of blast loading. In our experimental study, we manufactured reinforced concrete slabs with cavity geometries capable of damping the impending blast load, along with slabs of different geometric configurations. These produced slabs were subjected to detonation experiments with varying amounts of explosives equivalent to TNT, in contact and close contact conditions. The most optimal sections were identified against this blast load. Following the detonation experiments, the damages inflicted by the explosive on the slabs were divided into three categories: non-destructive, limit, and destructive situations. These damage levels were determined based on the damages to the interior walls forming the drainage channels for the dissipation of blast energy. The slab design implemented was observed to have a damping feature in contact explosions. Moreover, contact detonations were performed on prestressed slabs to examine the size effect of the slabs. The influences of surface geometries on damping explosion waves were examined, and it was determined that the geometric structure has a significant impact on the reflection pressure. Ambient and reflection pressures were measured with the aid of explosion sensors. The aim of the study is to ensure the dissipation of energy occurring in the voids reaches the rear face of the structure without causing damage. In this study, optimum sections were established considering the amounts of blast damping.