Assessment of Blast-Induced Damage in Reinforced Concrete Slabs: A Comparative Study between Numerical Simulation and Advanced Structural Analysis Software

Abstract

This research paper presents a comparative study on the assessment of blast-induced damage in reinforced concrete slabs, focusing on the comparison between numerical simulation and advanced structural analysis software. The objective is to evaluate the accuracy and reliability of both approaches in predicting structural damage caused by blast loading. The study utilizes numerical simulation techniques to model the dynamic behaviour of reinforced concrete slabs subjected to blast loading. Material properties, reinforcement details, and blast loading characteristics are incorporated into the simulations. The resulting structural response and damage are evaluated. In parallel, advanced structural analysis software, specifically MIDAS Civil software selected for its capabilities in blast analysis, is employed to analyse the same set of reinforced concrete slabs under blast loading. The software provides advanced modelling and analysis tools for assessing structural response and calculating blast-induced damage. By comparing the results obtained from the numerical simulations and the advanced structural analysis software, the study evaluates the agreement and capabilities of both approaches. Parameters such as displacements, strains, stress distributions, and damage patterns are examined. The findings contribute to the understanding of the accuracy and limitations of numerical simulation and advanced structural analysis software for blast-induced damage assessment. The results of this comparative study provide valuable insights for practitioners and researchers in blast engineering and structural assessment. The implications for blast-resistant design and recommendations for future research are discussed, aiding in the advancement of effective strategies for assessing and mitigating blast-induced damage in reinforced concrete structures. Keywords: Blast Analysis, Dynamic Linear Analysis, Response Spectrum Analysis, Prestressed Concrete.