Theoretical and experimental investigation on fragment behavior of architectural glass panel under blast loading

In this study, the analysis on broken of architectural glass panel subjected to blast loading is investigated. The architectural glass panel breaks up into fragments when it is overloaded by the external blast. The projection velocity and splash distance of glass fragments are very important parameters to establish fragment flight trajectory. In this paper, the fragment projection velocity is formulated based on energy principles, and the flight path is proposed by solving the acceleration equations established according to the variations of motion direction and force direction of the fragment. Explosive tests of architectural glass panel were carried out in the field test site to investigate the pressure loss effect on the projection velocity during the deformation of the panel. Empirical expressions of glass fragment flight trajectory are developed using a combined theoretical and experimental approach, which may be used to estimate the hazard from broken glazing.

► We study the projection velocity and splash distance of glass fragments.
► Based on energy principles the projection velocity of glass fragment is derived.
► Factors affecting the fragment flight are determined by the filed explosive test.
► The flight distance of glass fragment is developed by solving motion equations.
► The semi-theoretical expressions may be used to estimate the hazard from broken glazing.