DAMAGE OF REINFORCED CONCRETE SLABS SUBJECTED TO STANDOFF DETONATIONS AND EFFECTS OF COVER SOIL AS A SHOCK ABSORBER

Abstract

In this study, standoff detonation tests for reinforced concrete (RC) slabs with and without cover soil using Toyoura standard sand have been carried out to establish the blast resistant design and protective methods of RC shelters. The test parameters were mass of Pentolite explosive and standoff distance. After the tests, the damage caused in the slabs was investigated for craters, spalls and breaches. The main results obtained are as follows: 1) The cover soil is obviously effective as a shock absorber against blast loadings. 2) The damage of the RC slabs without cover soil may be better predicted using the method which is based on the McVay’s prediction method for spalling damage and proposed in this study.