Finite Element Analysis for CFST Columns under Blast Loading

The columns of frame structures are the key load-bearing components and the exterior columns are susceptible to attack in terrorist blasts. When subjected to blast loads, the columns would suffer a loss of bearing capacity to a certain extent due to the damage imparted which may lead to their collapse and even cause the progressive collapse of the whole structure . The concrete-filled steel columns have been extensively used in the world due to the existence of all suitable characteristics of concrete and steel, more ductility, increasing concrete confinement using the steel wall, the large energy-absorption capacity and the appropriate fire behavior. In the present study, the concrete-filled steel square columns have been simulated under the influence of the blast load using the ABAQUS software. These responses have been compared for scaled distances based on the distance to the source and the weight of the explosive material. As a result, it can be seen that although concrete deformation has been restricted using the steel tube, the inner layer of concrete has been seriously damaged and the column displacement has been decreased by increasing the scaled distance. We also concluded that the concrete-filled steel columns have the high ductility and the blast resistance.