Characteristics of Glass Based Energy Absorbers Exposed to the Blast Load

Energy absorbing materials can be used as a part of building structure to enhance its blast resistance, with positive impact on the safety of citizens. In the presented study, the new energy absorber based on expanded glass grains was subjected to the high strain rate loading using the Split Hopkinson pressure bar apparatus (SHPB) and to the blast load as a part of the sandwich structure. The influence of the binder amount on the attenuating properties of the material was evaluated. The dynamic response of 6 rectangular sandwich panel constructions (with different core designs) under blast loading was investigated. The objectives were to analyse the panels in terms of deformation and blast resistance and to determine the effect of different core set-ups on blast resistance enhancement of the entire structure. 5 types of core configurations, with almost identical areal density, were prepared and subjected to the blast wave generated by the detonation of 100g of TNT equivalent explosive from the 100 mm distance. Overall blast resistance of the panel was determined using the certified methodology M-T0-B VTÚO 10/09 based on evaluation of the tension strain curves recorded by strain gages fixed at the back steel plate of the sandwich. The image analysis was used to quantify the damage of the concrete slabs. The best results were achieved in the case of stepwise graded core with decreasing grain size from the blast load epicentre.