Finite element analysis of reinforced concrete columns under different range of blast loads

Columns are the significant load-bearing elements in any structure and exterior columns are probably the most vulnerable structural elements to accidental explosions. Blast load close to or nearby a building might cause sudden failure on the building's external and internal structural skeleton. Abaqus version 6.19 is used in this study to perform numerical simulations of the dynamic responses and residual strength of reinforced concrete columns subjected to different blast charge weights. The finite element model is verified through correlated experimental studies listed on the literature. A parametric study was chosen to cover wide range of factors on the global columns response; the effects of transverse and longitudinal reinforcement ratios, the charge weight, and the column aspect ratio. The model is validated to be used in the analysis of structures, and can closely predict the exact response behaviour of reinforced concrete columns under different detonation Scenarios. The study concluded that after a certain charge weight, the residual displacement became more significant. Providing more lateral reinforcement improved the blast resistant design by decreasing the residual displacement.

The results of this study are valid only for a specific standoff distance, and if the charge weight comes in contact with the structure, the results will be significantly different.