ABSTRACT

This book reviews the development of research into the explosive loading of structures, mainly since the beginning of the twentieth century. Major contributions in the fields of measurement, analysis and prediction are discussed. Dynamic loading from conventional high explosives is examined, as well as the effects of liquid propellant, dust, gas, vapour, and fuel/air explosions. Subjects include blast in tunnels, underground and underwater explosions, pressure measurement and blast stimulation. Explosive effects on civil buildings, civil bridges, aircraft and ships are summarized, including the estimation of residual strength. The concluding passages refer to structural safety and reliability.

chapter 1|26 pages

The nature of explosions

chapter 2|31 pages

The detonation of explosive charges

chapter 3|12 pages

Propellant, dust, gas and vapour

chapter 4|19 pages

Structural loading from distant explosions

chapter 5|28 pages

Structural loading from local explosions

chapter 6|22 pages

Pressure measurement and blast simulation

chapter 7|42 pages

Penetration and fragmentation

chapter 8|32 pages

The effects of explosive loading

chapter 9|14 pages

Response, safety and evolution