Improved nonlinear modelling approach of simply supportedPC slab under free blast load using RHT model

Due to the heterogeneity nature of the concrete, it is difficult to simulate the hyperdynamic behaviour and crack trajectory of concrete material when subjected to explosion loads. In this paper, a 3D nonlinear numerical study was conducted to simulate the hyperdynamic behaviour of concrete under various loading conditions using Riedel-Hiermaier-Thoma (RHT) model. Detailed calibration was conducted to identify the optimal parameters for the RHT model on the material level. For the component level, the calibrated RHT parameters were used to simulate the failure behaviour of plain concrete (PC) slab under free air blast load. The response was compared with an available experimental result. The results show the proposed numerical model can accurately simulate the crack trajectory and the failure mode of the PC slab under free air blast load.