Development of a fast-running method for prediction of blast propagation in partially confined spaces

In this contribution, a series of findings from Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations of blast propagation within fully confined spaces are presented. These numerical works have been carried out as part of an ongoing in-house development towards a fast-running method to predict overpressures and impulses arising from detonations within the various configurations of carparks in Singapore. In land-scarce cities like Singapore, carparks are typically located within the same structural footprints and are integrated with other functions of the building to facilitate convenient access. Design of carparks are required to meet statutory provisions with regards to the layout, headroom clearance and safety. To this end, the present research study has adopted a three-stage approach. First, different representative configurations of carparks are determined by making reference to and rationalising based on the prevailing statutory provisions in Singapore. This is then followed by a series of parametric CFD simulations to obtain essential numerical data in order to characterise the blast propagation within the respective partially confined spaces. Finally, several regression models are employed to derive relationships between the critical parameters and the blast data, with the aim of achieving a fast-running predictive method. This paper seeks to provide detailed descriptions of the first and the second stages, as well as to present the comparisons of numerically converged solutions, which are obtained from preliminary CFD simulations using two mesh sizes, against semi-analytical solutions which are calculated based on guidance from UFC 3-340-02 for fully confined detonation as initial reference cases.