Penetration mechanisms of non-deforming projectiles into reinforced concrete barriers

Abstract

Static and dynamic penetration tests of reinforced concrete (RC) slab specimens are described and discussed. The experimental study was aimed at a better understanding of mechanisms that are involved in dynamic penetration, through their identification in static tests, and by establishing their relative influence in similar dynamic cases. The RC specimens were square plates, and they were made of 30 MPa concrete. The non-deforming steel penetrator was a 50-mm diameter steel rod with a conical nose of 1.5 aspect ratio. Impact penetration tests were carried out with an air gun, which launched the projectiles at velocities of up to 300 m/sec. The static tests were conducted using a closed loop displacement control actuator, where the penetrator was pushed at a constant rate of displacement into the specimen. The static tests reveal important mechanisms that govern the penetration process and therefore contribute to a better understanding of RC barriers resistance to non-deforming projectiles impact.