Composite structural panels subjected to explosive loading

Details of an extensive large-scale test programme on a series of composite structural components subjected to explosive loading are presented in this paper. The test components include conventional reinforced concrete slabs, steel fibre reinforced concrete slabs, profiled steel sheeting reinforced concrete slabs, steel-air-steel sandwich panels and steel-concrete-steel sandwich panels. A total of seventy four specimens were tested using seventeen detonation phases; with charge weight ranging between 8 and 100 kg of bare high explosives and each at stand-off distance of 5 m. The main parameters observed in the tests were the generic construction form of the materials and slab thickness. Air-blast overpressure and accelerations of the specimens were captured. A modified plasticine displacement gauge was used to measure the maximum displacement. Failure modes of each type of specimens were recorded and are presented in the paper. Major conclusions relating to structural safety are summarised.