Numerical simulation of foamed concrete performance under low velocity impact loading

Author(s): L. Zheng, M. R. Jones
Paper category: Proceedings
Book title: Proceedings of the Seventh International Conference on Concrete under Severe Conditions – Environment and Loading
Editor(s): Z.J. Li, W. Sun, C.W. Miao, K.Sakai, O.E. Gjørv, N.Banthia
ISBN: 978-2-35158-124-7
e-ISBN: 978-2-35158-134-6
Publisher: RILEM Publications SARL
Publication year: 2013
Pages: 787-799
Total Pages: 13
Language : English

Abstract: Foamed materials are widely used to absorb impact energy to save structures, vehicles and other objects from damage. Although polymer based foams are mostly used, foamed concrete (also known as cellular concrete) has been seen as an effective alternative and generally used as energy absorber in case of large-scale and low-cost condition, such as explosion prevention in mines, military engineering projects and aircraft arresting systems. A study on energy absorption capabilities of foamed concrete from low velocity impact loading was carried out, with foamed concrete densities varying from 500 to 1400 kg/m³. The test used a hemispherical projectile dropped from height of 4.7m in free air. The resulting ‘damage’, assessed in terms of failure mode, indent volume and depth were numerically simulated with the explicit dynamics analysis software, ANSYS AUTODYN. Bubble structures of foamed concrete were studied and showed close relationship with the densification strain parameter used with the crushable-foam model in the dynamic simulation. An optimum energy absorption efficiency range for foamed concrete under impact loading is suggested.

Online publication : 2013
Publication type : full_text
Public price (Euros) : 0.00