Prediction of High-Explosive Detonation Effects on Steel Sheets During Experimental Tests Using Finite Element Analysis

Abstract

Investigating the effects of high explosives on metallic structures is important for the development of new protective systems and for assessing the load-bearing capacity of existing structures. To achieve these objectives, a series of detonation tests using TNT charges will be conducted to evaluate the resulting effects on 2 mm-thick A36 structural steel sheets. However, before performing the experimental tests, it is essential to accurately predict the effects of the detonations on the steel sheets in order to ensure test safety and verify that the selected explosive configurations produce the intended structural response. To accomplish this, a series of finite element method (FEM) simulations was carried out using Abaqus®, considering different expected standoff distances. The numerical results indicated that the steel sheets experienced permanent deformations exceeding the material's elastic limit without reaching failure. These findings satisfy the objectives of the study, since either negligible or catastrophic deformations would prevent the proper measurement and evaluation of blast effects on the structural elements during the experimental campaign.