Dynamic response and robustness of tall buildings under blast loading

Recently, extensive research has been focused on the progressive collapse analysis of the multi-storey buildings. However, most of the research is based on the alternative path method (APM) with sudden removal of the columns, ignoring the duration of the blast load working on the structures. In this paper, a 3-D numerical model with the direct simulation of blast load is proposed to study the real behavior of a 20 storey tall building under the blast loading. A typical package bomb charge of 15 kg was detonated on the 12th floor. The corresponding dynamic response of structure was studied in detail. The robustness of the building under blast load was assessed. Comparison between the proposed method and the APM was also made. It is found that, due to the uplift and downward pressure working on the slab, the column force under the direct blast simulation method is smaller than that of the alternative path method. The method to enhance the robustness of the buildings is also recommended.

► A 3-D numerical model with the direct simulation of blast load is proposed.
► The dynamic behaviour of the building under blast load is studied.
► The Collapse potential of the building is checked.
► The accuracy of APM method is assessed.