Explosive Fragmentation of Dividing Walls
Abstract
A study to determine the fragmentation characteristics of reinforced concrete and masonry dividing walls subjected to close-in blast effects has been performed. This study concentrated its efforts on obtaining data on the following parameters: fragment velocity, fragment shape and size, and fragment density down range. A test plan for validation tests was developed based on the results of the literature search and the model analysis. Thirty-six tests using 1/6th-scale model reinforced concrete dividing walls and four full-scale masonry dividing wall tests were performed. Charge weight, standoff distance, wall thickness, reinforcement spacing and restraint conditions were varied for the reinforced concrete wall tests; charge weight, standoff distance, and type of block were varied for the masonry wall tests. Fragments were recovered, sized, and weighed, and fragment velocities were measured for all tests. A procedure was developed for estimating the total impulse imparted to the dividing wall during an explosion. An empirical prediction model, which adequately correlated the experimental data for the number of fragments produced, the highest velocity, the longest range, and the largest mass with the total impulse was developed. Statistical distributions for fragment mass and range were prepared in the format of arena tests of bombs and large caliber projectiles.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1981
- Accession Number
- ADA104348
Entities
People
- J. C. Hokanson
- L. M. Vargas
- R. M. Rindner
Organizations
- Southwest Research Institute