Empirical model of concrete block fragment behavior under explosion loads

Concrete structures undergo integral fragmentation under explosion loads. The fragmentation degree and particle-size distribution of concrete blocks under explosion loads must be considered during mining to ensure safety. In this study, the impulse is calculated based on the relationship between overpressure and time, and the impact energy of the explosion wave is obtained based on blast theory. Subsequently, the Mohr-Coulomb shear strength fracture criterion is introduced to determine the ultimate shear stress of the concrete materials, and an empirical model that can effectively calculate the energy consumption of concrete blocks under explosion loads is established. Furthermore, concrete fragments with different particle sizes under explosion scenarios are quantitatively predicted with the principle of energy conservation. Finally, explosion tests with different top standoff distances are conducted, and the concrete fragments after the explosion tests are recovered, sieved, weighed, and counted to obtain experimental data. The effectiveness of the fragment empirical model is verified by comparing the model calculation results with the experimental data. The proposed model can be used as a reference for civil blasting, protective engineering design, and explosion-damage assessment.