Technical reportAbstract: A method of analysis for buried arches with footings was developed to predict their response to a nuclear airblast overpressure. The method of analysis was formulated by considering the arch ring as a discrete model consisting of a finite number of nodes (flexible joints) connected by rigid bars initially of equal length. The results of laboratory and field tests on 1/4.5- and 1/2-scale models, respectively, of an arch structure are compared with predictions made using the analysis. Arch internal loads, footing motions, and free-field motions are compared with those predicted by the analysis and compare favorably. The analytical technique was used to predict the response of the prototype structure to a 14o-psi air overpressure loading resulting from the detonation of 10-kt, 100-kt, and 1-Mt weapons, to a 100-psi air overpressure for a 1-Mt weapon, and to the Operation Prairie Flat (500-ton TNT) 140-psi overpressure and the predicted response was compared with that assumed in designing the structure. The method of analysis developed is recommended whenever a significant cost savings can be realized because a number of structures are to be constructed or when local soil conditions make design by cruder methods uncertain.

Weapons Effects Laboratory (U.S.)Engineer Research and Development Center (U.S.)

Blast effects; Buried arches; Dynamic response; Footings; Models; Nuclear explosion effects; Overpressure

Technical report (U.S. Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station) ; N-71-9.

Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

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