Structural blast design

Abstract

Blast design is a necessary part of design for more buildings in the United States. Blast design is no longer limited to underground shelters and sensitive military sites, buildings used by the general public daily must also have satisfactory blast protection. Integrating blast design into existing norms for structural design is a challenge but it is achievable. By looking at the experience of structural designers in Israel over the past several decades it is possible to see successful integration of blast design into mainstream buildings. Israel's design techniques and policies can be used as a paradigm for the United States. A structural design for a performing arts center is analyzed within the context of blast design. Improvements in the design for blast protection are suggested. These design improvements include camouflaging the structural system, using blast resistant glass, reinforced concrete, and hardening of critical structural members. It is shown that integration of blast design into modem mainstream structures is achievable. New techniques and creative problem solving must be used to adapt blast design to work alongside current design trends.