Development of Performance-Based Design Guidelines for Reinforced Concrete Columns Subject to Blast Loads

Abstract

Critical civilian facilities and military infrastructure in India have been a target of several terrorist attacks in the last few decades. In order to address the risk of explosion threats, it has become critical to design and construct blast-resistant structures to save lives and protect infrastructure. The focus of this paper is to develop performance-based guidelines for the blast-resistant design of reinforced concrete (RC) columns. Columns are the most vulnerable component of a structure and are at a high risk under a detonation scenario. The paper presents a comprehensive review of the blast-resistant design procedures followed by different design documents. The gaps and challenges in the blast resistance of RC columns were identified and addressed. Specific issues in the axial, flexure, and shear design of columns are highlighted. A performance-based analysis and design approach for blast-resistant design of RC column were developed and is presented in the paper. The design approach was verified using high-fidelity numerical simulations. The performances of the design columns was assessed using nonlinear FE models developed in LS-DYNA. The ultimate capacities of the columns subject to blast loads were obtained. The numerical simulations assist in verifying the proposed design procedures and provide critical information on the failure modes, safety margin, and other parameters for blast-resistant design of RC columns. Recommendations on safe and efficient design of RC members are also provided.