Modelling debris distribution of masonry panels subject to blast loads using experimental & applied element methods

Abstract Blast loading and its interaction with structures is a complex phenomenon even in the simplest of cases and modelling its effects is a non-trivial task. This complexity is increased when dealing with long duration blast due to the drag loads associated with the dynamic pressure. This paper establishes a scientific benchmark for the debris distribution modelling of masonry panels as the foundation of an extended in-depth research study. Experimental trials were conducted in which identical masonry walls were subjected to separate conventional high explosive and long duration blast loads for comparison. Both experiments were subsequently modelled using the Applied Element Method (AEM ) with the computational results demonstrating good agreement. The experimental blast loads were characterised with matching overpressures for computational simplicity allowing for a direct comparison between both cases and a clear indication of the effects of impulse, dynamic pressure and entrainment on debris distribution.