The prevention of runway collapse following an underground explosion

Abstract

The authors have modelled some of the effects caused by the detonation of chemical explosives in a subgrade under a cement concrete runway. It was assumed that, although the subgrade between the underground cavity (camouflet) and the runway was disturbed, the runway retained its original position and did not heave or crack. This article considers a series of possible materials that could be used to fill and stabilise the camouflet to effect a rapid and long-term runway repair. The authors found that the use of a material to fill a camouflet cavity did not have a significant effect on reducing runway surface displacements. Also there was no infill material that would increase the runway and subbase life for all load cases. The use of a suitably designed polystyrene infill gave the best results.