Behavior of structures subjected to an explosion

The development of industrial activities has given rise to new risks. Among these, explosion is a specific phenomenon that can have either accidental or intentional origins. Its uncertain but potentially violent nature means that it needs to be approached differently from other conventional loadings for structural analysis.

The analysis method presented in this article is largely based on experience acquired in the field of industrial safety and "safety engineering", and aims in particular to address the explosion problem on the basis of a performance-based approach to the behavior of structures, as an alternative to the traditional regulatory and "prescriptive" approach. It aims to complement conventional calculation approaches, which are rapidly becoming limited in their ability to deal with accidental loads such as explosions.

The performance-based approach defines behavioral requirements associated with safety objectives, based on previously defined accident scenarios. It is based on a structured process of demonstration through calculation. This methodology is primarily intended for structures where the consequences of a structural failure could be disastrous for the occupants or the operator, or, in the case of industrial installations, could amplify the initiating phenomenon through a domino effect.

This approach is fully in line with the possibilities introduced by the structural EUROCODES, and in particular EUROCODE 1 on the consideration of accidental actions in structural design.

The concepts gradually introduced will familiarize the reader with the specifics of structural design in the event of an explosion, and can be put to good use in vulnerability studies drawn up as part of technological risk prevention plans. In view of the many particularities of the proposed approach, it is strongly recommended to consult specialists in this highly specific field.

Finally, the proposed methodology could be extended to other accidental (fire, flood, earthquake) or exceptional (malicious acts) load cases which, because of their high intensity but low probability of occurrence in the life of the structure, may require a comparable approach.