Finite element analysis and experimental validation of reinforced concrete single-mat slabs subjected to blast loads

The work done in this research is to study the response of reinforced concrete slabs subjected to blast loading as they can be used as protective structures around the main structure. An experimental investigation has been performed in a separate study involving blast-testing of 12 reinforced concrete slabs in a shock tube (Blast Load Simulator). The data from this experimental investigation was made available for performing advanced finite element analysis done in this research to study the behavior of these slabs towards blast loading.;A non-linear transient dynamic finite element analysis program LS-DYNA RTM is used for this study. The finite element models of these 12 slab panels are developed in LS-DYNARTM and blast pressures equivalent to those generated in the experiment are applied to them. These slabs include two material combinations based on their strength namely, the high-strength concrete reinforced with high-strength steel slabs and normal-strength concrete reinforced with normal-strength steel slabs. The primary objective is to study the response of material combinations to blast loading by using two different concrete material models available in LS-DYNA namely, Winfrith Concrete Model and Concrete Damage Model Release 3 and comparing it with the experimental results. Validation of these models with experimental data will provide a numerical analysis procedure which will be less expensive and safer than performing blast testing.;On performing this study, finite element analysis and experimental validation of reinforced concrete single-mat slabs subjected to blast loading it is concluded that the Winfrith Concrete Model predicts a better response in terms of deflection and crack propagation for both normal and high strength concrete. Concrete Damage Model Release 3 needs additional parameters to be defined based on concrete laboratory testing data for it to predict a better response in the normal-strength and high-strength category. These additional parameters have been developed and recommended in this study.