Blast response of laminated glass panels: a critical review of analysis and design methods

Abstract

Laminated glass panels are often used to enhance the blast resilience of buildings by replacing the inherently brittle, monolithic glass that has historically been used in building façades. These composite ductile panels offer superior blast resistance and result in reduced glass-related injuries due to the interlayer's ability to provide residual resistance following fracture of the glass layers and to retain glass fragments. The various analysis methods that have been developed to support the blast design of laminated glass panels and reduce the need for expensive blast testing are reviewed in this paper. The focus is on panels with polyvinyl butyral, as this is the most commonly used interlayer in building façades. The methods identified are categorised into empirical design guidance, analytical models, finite-element analysis and equivalent single-degree-of-freedom methods, thereby enabling a comparison of the modelling principles adopted and the material properties assumed within the different categories. This is informed by first presenting a brief overview of the material properties of laminated glass under blast conditions. The consistency of the underlying structural mechanics principles is discussed by comparing the methodologies across the different categories. Finally, the ease of application is considered, highlighting the methods that are often preferred by practitioners.