Title: Numerical simulation of a bowstring steel highway girder bridge response to blast loads: model development and anti-blast performance prediction

Authors: Mohd Aamir; Mehtab Alam; S.M. Anas; Faris A. Uriayer; Mohammad Umair; Rafat Tahzeeb

Addresses: Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Jamia Millia Islamia (A Central University), New Delhi, India ' Department of Civil Engineering, Netaji Subhas University of Technology (West Campus), New Delhi, India ' Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Jamia Millia Islamia (A Central University), New Delhi, India ' Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Kufa, Kufa, Iraq ' Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Jamia Millia Islamia (A Central University), New Delhi, India ' Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Jamia Millia Islamia (A Central University), New Delhi, India

Abstract: Study of the blast resistance of engineering structures has become significantly important in recent years in light of the increase in global terrorism. Conventional structural design does not include explosion-loading. Thus, few buildings are designed with requisite resistance against such loading. Exceptions to this are buildings in petrochemical facilities where explosion hazards exist and high-profile buildings (e.g., embassies). Important bridges on the highway system have greater chances of being potential targets for terrorist explosions to disrupt traffic movement, cause human casualties and impact socio-economic conditions. In this study, the effects of explosive mass and location on the dynamic response of a bowstring steel highway girder bridge subjected to blastwave pressure with ConWep approach is investigated using ABAQUS software. Dynamic responses are discussed and compared. It was found that severe eccentric explosive loading on the deck other than at the supports is found detrimental and makes the bridge almost irreparable.

Keywords: bridges; blast loading; ConWep; dynamic response; explosive location; protective structures; standoff distance; safety.

DOI: 10.1504/IJRS.2022.131469

International Journal of Reliability and Safety, 2022 Vol.16 No.3/4, pp.218 - 236

Received: 04 Jan 2023
Accepted: 05 Mar 2023
Published online: 13 Jun 2023 *

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