Numerical Study for Retrofitting of RC Columns for Blast Loading

Mumbai : The paper presents the effect of blast loads generated as a result of explosive charges on the existing exterior reinforced concrete (RC) circular column of a typical building. A wide range of parametric studies have been performed as part of this investigation to examine the effects of stand-off distance, charge weight and the presence of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) retrofitting on the level of damage to the column. The nonlinear finite element analysis was carried out using LS-DYNA software with explicit time integration algorithms.

Different charge weights at varying stand-off distances were considered. Results described in this paper indicate that CFRP strengthening could be an effective solution to limit the damage caused by moderate explosions. The stand-off distance was found to play a vital role in mitigating the adverse effects of a blast.

Structures all over the world have recently become susceptible to the threat of terrorist attacks, accidental explosions and other unthought-of explosion related failures. Buildings and critical infrastructures vulnerable to explosions include government buildings, embassies, financial institutions, densely populated commercial structures, and other buildings of national heritage or landmarks. Consequently, a number of concerns have been raised on the vulnerability and behavior of these structures under extreme loadings.