Simple blast resistance evaluation of structures

This study presents simplified methods for the preliminary evaluation of blast resistance of building structures. The methods presented are applicable to masonry, concrete, steel or wood structures. The study begins with estimating blast parameters for a given charge size and standoff distance. These parameters include side-on, dynamic and reflected pressures, positive phase duration and both side-on and reflected impulses. However, only external blasts due to high explosives are considered. Subsequently, blast damage criteria are defined in accordance with prevailing guidelines. To assess the impact of blast on the safety and performance of structures, simple methods are presented. These methods are either empirical or are based on the principles of energy and momentum conservation. The analytical results may be in closed-form or in pressure-impulse (P-I) diagrams form. In order to apply these methods, a structure must be transformed to a single degree of freedom system.