FRP Design Methodology and Applications for Blast and Impact-Resistant Structures-Principles & Rationale in FRP Detailing for Blast Applications (PDF)

Principles & Rationale in FRP Detailing for Blast Applications (PDF)

Pdf Summary

The document, “Principles & Rationale in FRP Detailing for Blast Applications,” presented at the ACI 2018 Spring Convention by Zachery Smith from Karagozian & Case, Inc., discusses the application and considerations of using Fiber Reinforced Plastics (FRP) for blast mitigation in construction. FRP can be applied to enhance the flexural strength of masonry unit (CMU) in-fill walls, shear and confinement of columns, and to address uplift and tie forces on diaphragms and beam-column connections.<br /><br />Key concerns regarding FRP in blast applications include premature debonding, concrete substrate issues, bolt and anchorage design, epoxy charring, and strain-rate effects, among others. To effectively use FRP for uplift and tie force applications, designers must ensure the materials can withstand rotation requirements and resist rupture or debonding.<br /><br />The document outlines specific challenges when detailing FRP for CMU and brick walls, such as sliding, shear capacity, debonding, and reverse bending failures. It emphasizes the importance of proper anchorage using different mounting techniques, whether hard or soft, to ensure stability under blast conditions.<br /><br />For effective FRP deployment, materials like LS-DYNA FE models and simulations in various configurations, including GFRP layers, concrete slabs, and steel components, are explored to predict blast responses. Effective plastic strain plots and resultant forces inform anchor and connection designs, ensuring that systems can accommodate expected forces while minimizing structural failures.<br /><br />Column detailing stresses the orientation of fibers, overlap and splice concerns, and temperature effects during blasts, highlighting the importance of maintaining structural integrity under extreme conditions. A strong focus on realistic construction expectations and thorough detailing ensures FRP applications provide sufficient ductility, promoting safer design practices in blast-prone environments. In summary, FRP demonstrates promising enhancements in structural resilience when carefully integrated into designs with meticulous attention to detailing and anchorage.

Keywords

Fiber Reinforced Plastics

blast mitigation

construction

debonding

anchorage design

uplift forces

structural resilience

LS-DYNA simulations

column detailing

ductility