Modelling the response of reinforced concrete panels under blast loading

• A 3D model is developed for reinforced concrete panels under blast loads.
• Element size effect is investigated and considered in the model.
• Strain-rate effect is taken into account in the material model.
• Parametric study is carried out to provide references for structural design.

A finite element model is developed for the simulation of the structural response of steel-reinforced concrete panels to blast loading using LS-DYNA. The effect of element size on the dynamic material model of concrete is investigated and strain-rate effects on concrete in tension and compression are accounted for separately in the model. The model is validated by comparing the computed results with experimental data from the literature. In addition, a parametric study is carried out to investigate the effects of charge weight, standoff distance, panel thickness and reinforcement ratio on the blast resistance of reinforced concrete panels.