A Study of a Protective Container for Combined Blast, Fragmentation and Thermal Effects from Energetic Materials Detonation

Abstract

: A composite protective container is experimentally investigated to counter combined blast, fragmentation and thermal effects from either a 1.0 kg bare or 0.6 kg cased (pipe-bomb) TNT equivalent charge. Commercially available shaving foam was used as the internal filling material. The shaving foam quenched the initial fireball and afterburning reactions. The composite case contained the blast overpressure and prevented the escape of primary fragments. The novel combination of extended polystyrene (EPS) foam, bakelite and polyurethane (PU)- silica composite employed at the container base provided protection against in-contact explosive detonation. Maximum peak reflected overpressure of 86.87 kPa (12.6 psi) was measured at 1.0 m distance for 1.0 kg TNT equivalent charge detonation inside the container. The protective container provided 97% peak overpressure reduction compared to the equivalent surface burst detonation. The fragmentation and their impact on container were simulated using a coupled SPH-ALE approach. Steel casing fragments weighing up to 8.0 g with velocities in the range of 1260-1550 m/s were produced and impacted the container. This investigation provides a basis in the design of a device to combat terrorist devices in public places, high profile meeting venues and transportation systems