Evaluation of nonlinear response of steel members under blast loading

In this study the dynamic response of typical W-shape steel beams was experimentally evaluated. A total of thirteen wide flange steel specimens were field tested using live explosives. The test specimens were subjected to blast loads generated by detonation of different charge sizes, ranging from 50 to 250 kg of ANFO at standoff distances varying from 7 to 10 m. Blast wave characteristics, including incident and reflected pressures, and impulses were recorded. In addition, the mid-span deflection and- strains at different locations along the steel members were measured. The experimental results were compared with those obtained from nonlinear dynamic analysis based on a Single-Degree-of-Freedom (SDOF) model, with reasonable agreement between the theoretical and experimental results.