Impact analysis and absorber design for collision protection of part-buried structures

Based on the p-version finite element method (FEM), an elasto-plastic impact model abandoning the Hertzian contact law for the collision protection of part-buried structures is presented. With the model, one can predict the whole impact process including the impact force and responses of the impactor and the structure automatically and straightforwardly. An impact experiment of a three-dimensional column-plate structure attached with elastic and elasto-plastic absorbers is carried out to verify the proposed model. For the engineering application, some Cellular Reinforced Concrete Blocks (CRCBs) with different strength are designed as impact absorbers. Unlike steel and Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP), the proposed blocks would not be easily rusted and aged. The quasi-static tests prove that they have the excellent energy absorbing characteristic. These blocks are used for protection of the T structure resisting the famous Qiantang tide and protecting the dams at both sides of the Qiantang River.