Derivation of normalized pressure impulse curves for flexural ultra high performance concrete slabs

In previous studies, a finite-difference procedure was developed to analyze the dynamic response of simply supported normal reinforced concrete (NRC) slabs under blast loads. Ultra high performance concrete (UHPC) is a relatively new material with high strength and high deformation capacity in comparison with conventional normal strength concrete. Therefore, the finite-difference procedure for analysis of conventional reinforced concrete members against blast loads needs to be significantly adapted and extended to accommodate UHPC. In this paper, an advanced moment-rotation analysis model, employed to simulate the behavior of the plastic hinge of an UHPC member, is incorporated into the finite-difference procedure for the dynamic response analysis of reinforced UHPC slabs under blast loads. The accuracy of the finite-difference analysis model that utilized the moment-rotation analysis technique was validated using results from blast tests conducted on UHPC slabs. The validated finite-difference model was then used to generate pressure impulse (PI) curves. Parametric studies were then conducted to investigate the effects of various sectional and member properties on PI curves. Based on the simulated results, two equations were derived that can be used to normalize a PI curve. Further numerical testing of the normalization equations for UHPC members was then undertaken. The generated normalized PI curve, accompanied by the derived normalization equations, can be used for the purposes of general UHPC blast design. © 2013 American Society of Civil Engineers.