Behavior of ultra-high performance fiber reinforced concrete columns under blast loading

This paper presents the results of a study examining the blast load performance of ultra-high performance fiber reinforced concrete (UHPFRC) columns. As part of the experimental program nine full-scale columns constructed with compact reinforced composite (CRC), a proprietary UHPFRC, were tested under simulated blast loading and exposed to varying blast pressure–impulse combinations using a shock-tube. Parameters considered in this study include concrete type, fiber content, fiber properties, transverse reinforcement spacing and longitudinal reinforcement ratio. The results demonstrate that the use of UHPFRC significantly improves the blast performance of reinforced concrete columns by reducing maximum and residual displacements, enhancing damage tolerance, and eliminating secondary blast fragments. The results also indicate that fiber content, fiber properties, seismic detailing and longitudinal reinforcement ratio are important factors that can affect the blast load behavior and failure mode of UHPFRC columns. The analytical investigation examines the suitability of using single-degree-of-freedom (SDOF) analysis to predict the blast response of the UHPFRC columns tested in the research program.