Blast Upgrading of Existing Structures
Abstract
A major facet of preparedness is the upgrading of structures to provide shelter from nuclear weapons effects. This report describes some upgrading concepts, develops practical techniques for predicting structural failure, and verifies the failure prediction methodology by comparing the analysis with structural failure test data developed under this program and available in the literature. The analyses and prediction techniques were applied to wood, steel, and concrete roof and floor specimens; and to static, dynamic, and combined loadings. The prediction methodology is founded on engineering mechanics, limit theory, and a statistical approach to failure analysis that enables realistic assessment to be made of failure probabilities based on the combined effects of statistical variation in materials, structural elements, and construction processes. The failure prediction methodology is demonstrated experimentally for wood and reinforced concrete floor structures. Because wood systems are the most technically demanding, the wood structure examples are analyzed in 'cookbook' style, with the source data reproduced in tables, and the governing probability distribution functions developed in detail for each of the various elements. The impact of significant changes in design procedures, steel grading and properties, and building codes over the years are discussed.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1979
- Accession Number
- ADA066998
Entities
People
- B. L. Gabrielsen
- G. Cuzner
- R. Lindskog