Experimental testing of liner tray walls subjected to near field blast

Explosions produced in urban or industrial areas due to accidental or intentional detonation of high energy explosives (e.g., improvised explosive devices IED) are low‐probability but high‐impact events. If standoff distance from buildings or other constructions is small, explosions can cause structural failures and serious injuries or deaths of people. Preventing buildings from collapse is essential to minimizing casualties among occupants. However, experience has shown that even if the collapse is prevented, high number of injuries can result from fragments and flying debris generated by the non‐structural components or building envelopes. This risk could be minimized through appropriate design and selection of construction materials for most exposed elements (i.e., building envelopes). Although heavy/stiff systems were long considered appropriate to protect buildings against explosive threats, lighter and flexible systems are increasingly used for modern buildings. By allowing damage (but not fragmentation), the envelope system can provide predictable response, with minimal injuries in case of an explosion.

The study presents the results of full‐scale blast tests on liner tray walls attached to a steel frame building. Walls are tested against increasing blast charges until complete failure. The ultimate strength is given by the failure of the end fasteners, after large bolt hole elongations coupled with the pull‐through of the end fasteners.