Numerical simulation of blast responses of ultra-high performance fibre reinforced concrete panels with strain-rate effect

Abstract Ultra-high performance fibre reinforced concrete (UHPFRC) is a promising construction material for protective structures due to its superior material characteristics. In this study, a finite element model is developed for the simulation of structural responses of UHPFRC panels subjected to blast loads. Based on the available experimental data, the procedures for the material model calibration are presented. The effect of strain rate on the dynamic material properties is reviewed, and the formula of dynamic increase factor is selected and proposed based on the steel fibre dosage and matrix strength. The developed finite element model is validated by comparing the numerical predictions with the test results from literature. In addition, a parametric study is carried out to investigate the effects of steel reinforcement ratios and the blast scenarios on the resistance of UHPFRC panels, and the advantages of using UHPFRC in protective structures are demonstrated by the comparison against high strength reinforced concrete panels.