Analysis of the performance of laminated glass against explosions

Abstract

This dissertation investigates the performance of laminated glass against explosions, focusing on the dynamic response of glass panels subjected to blast loads. The study aims to assess the behaviour of glass panels under the effect of blast waves and is part of the project "SAERFA - Energy Absorption Systems Using Additive Manufacturing". Then, in a subsequent phase of the project a system that can absorb energy and mitigate the effects of the blast wave will be developed. For this work, two experimental campaigns were conducted. First, an experimental campaign using a shock tube to characterize the action of the blast wave, where pressure and impulse data were collected. Then, an experimental campaign was conducted using the same shock tube with laminated glass samples of different thicknesses to determine their behaviour under blast waves. Afterwards, with all the data collected, numerical models using finite element analysis tools were built. These models helped create pressure-impulse diagrams, providing insights into the failure behaviour of glass subjected to explosions. The agreement between experimental data and numerical results confirms the model's accuracy. The final outcomes demonstrate that laminated glass panels, particularly with increased thickness, can effectively withstand higher blast loads.